Personality and Stress-Vitamins

Two physicians, Friedman and Roseman, have written extensively about personality, cardiovascular disease, and stress. These researchers have described two stress-related personality types-type A and type B. Most people are neither type exclusively but fall somewhere between the two.

Type A personality is characterized by an urgent sense of time, impatience, competitiveness, aggressiveness, insecurity over status, and inability to relax. People with type A behavior characteristics are likely to be highly stressed. Type B people have a more unhurried approach to their lives. The type B personality does not become as upset at losing or not attaining a goal. Type B people also tend to set more realistic goals. Researchers disagree on whether there is a possible relationship between the stress­prone type A personality and cardiovascular disease.

In general, researchers believe that being a type A personality is not a problem if there is no underlying hostility. However, regardless of whether type A individuals are more susceptible to heart disease, they will experience more negative effects, such as tiredness and frustration, from short-term stress.

"Stress survivors" people who have been found to handle stress successfully or have successful coping abilities-have several common characteristics. Psychologist Suzanne Kobasa 12 has isolated these attributes and characterized the type of person who exhibits them. A hardy personality tends to remain healthy even under extreme stress. Characteristics of a hardy personality or hardiness are challenge, commitment, and control Challenge is the ability to see change for what it is-that is, not only inevitable but an opportunity for growth and development of unique individual abilities. Commitment is delineated by a strong sense of inner purpose. It is necessary to want to succeed for success to be achieved. Commitment is the ability to become really involved while maintaining the discernment to know when dedication and desire are harmful. Control is exhibited by the recognition that people have power over their lives and attitudes. People who have a sense of control act in situations rather than react to them.

Coping With and Managing Stress

Stress profoundly affects people's lives. Every one lives with stress-whether a student, business person, parent, or athlete. Stress is frequently viewed as an enemy. This is a misconception. Stress is often neither positive nor negative. How people deal with or react to what they perceive as stress is what determines its effect on their lives. As has been stated, "It is often said that stress is one of the most destructive elements in people's daily lives, but that is only a half truth. The way we react to stress appears to be more important than the stress itself. The effects of stress can be either positive or negative. Positively used, stress can be a motivator for an improved quality of life. Viewed negatively, it can be destructive.

Selecting a Stress-Reducing Technique

No single stress-reduction technique automatically reduces stress for everyone. People are comfortable with and enjoy different activities, and this is what determines long-term use. When dealing with your stress, awareness that a stress response is occurring is necessary first. People are frequently un­aware that the reason they are always tired or irritable or have body aches is because they are experiencing stress's negative effects. Second, everyone has to find the stress-reduction techniques that work best for them. This usually requires more than one approach, depending on the individual and the type of stress response each individual experiences. Any technique that helps create a sense of relaxation, provides personal time, and allows you to gain control can lead to a happier, healthier, more enjoyable life.

Third, the best form of stress management is the prevention of negative effects before they become unmanageable. Well thought out, prudent lifestyle decisions based on knowledge of health behaviors and understanding of your own needs and expectations may be the best contribution you can make to your own stress-management plan.

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