Stress is actually a normal part of life. At times, it serves a useful purpose. Stress can motivate you to get that promotion at work or run the last mile of a marathon. But if you don't get a handle on your stress and it becomes long-term, it can seriously interfere with your job, family life and health. More than 70% of Nigerians experience real physical and emotional symptoms of stress.

The Causes of Stress cannot be underemphasized as everyone has different stress triggers. Work stress tops the list, according to surveys.40% of Nigerian workers admit to experiencing office stress, and one-quarter say work is the biggest source of stress in their lives.
•Being unhappy in your job
•Having a heavy workload or too much responsibility
•Working long hours
•Having poor management, unclear expectations of your work, or no say in the decision-making process
•Working under dangerous conditions
•Being insecure about your chance for advancement or risk of termination
•Having to give speeches in front of colleagues
•Facing discrimination or harassment at work, especially if your company isn't supportive

When stress becomes long-term and is not properly addressed, it can lead to a number of more serious health conditions, including:
•Depression
•High blood pressure
•Abnormal heartbeat (arrhythmia)
•Hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis)
•Heart disease
•Heart attack
•Heartburn, ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome
•Upset stomach -- cramps, constipation, and diarrhea
•Weight gain or loss
•Changes in sex drive
•Fertility problems
•Flare-ups of asthma or arthritis
•Skin problems such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis