Is stress a factor in your life? According to the American Institute of Stress, as reported by Time Magazine:

* "Job stress is 'the 20th Century Disease'" - United Nations National Report
* 75-90% of visits to primary care physicians are for stress related problems
* 1 million employees are absent on an average workday due to stress related problems -National Safety Council estimate
* Less than 25% of Americans find their jobs extremely satisfying today.
* 78% describe their jobs as being stressful.
* Stress costs 200 - 300 billion annually, as assessed by absenteeism, diminished productivity, employee turnover, accidents, direct medical, legal, and insurance fees, Worker's Compensation etc. That is equal to the total net profit of the Fortune 500 companies.
* 60-80% of accidents on the job are stress related.

What you may not know is that your stress may be impacting your health. In fact, 70 to 80 percent of all disease and illness is stress related.

A short list of stress related health problems includes:

- heart palpitations and coronary heart disease
- cancer
- the common cold
- warts and other skin problems
- some cases of female infertility and missed periods
- insomnia and excessive tiredness
- tense muscles resulting in neckache, backache and tension headaches
- increased pain from arthritis and other conditions

What if I told you that you don't need to spend huge amounts of money trying to relax? No, I'm not going to tell you that you need a vacation. Even going on vacation doesn't necessarily help alleviate stress, because more and more people are staying in touch with the office by taking their laptop, cell phone or other portable devices on vacation too.

There are several indicators you can use to determine if you suffer from chronic stress. Warning signs of chronic stress can include: a diminishing of the quality of life by reducing feelings of pleasure and accomplishment, often threatening relationships; migraine headaches, shoulder and neck pain, susceptibility to infection, anxiety, ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome, eating disorders, sexual dysfunction, allergies, and substance abuse.

The first step in dealing with stress is to examine the factors that create it. What are the responsibilities of your job and family life? High levels of responsibility, noise, overcrowded conditions, and interpersonal problems can all create stress, as can prolonged illness or death in the family.

Chronic stress is not hopeless, and you don't necessarily need the help of a professional. Some of the most effective stress management techniques include relaxation exercises, meditation, taking a short nap or a break, or confiding in a friend or co-worker. Planning for contingencies (having a "plan B"), effective time management, and delegation of responsibility can also all help reduce stress. Seek counseling or support from family members and friends.

Ultimately, virtually everyone experiences some level of stress. Through effective identification and management, you can reduce its negative effects and enjoy a healthier life.