Feeling Stressed?

Losing sleep worrying?

Overwhelmed with the demands and responsibilities of your life?

Dealing with difficulties in a relationship at home?

Everyone experiences stress. It’s a part of life. According to the American Psychological Association , 54% of Americans are concerned about the level of stress in their everyday lives.

Stress is the body's way of preparing for a difficult situation with alertness. In small doses stress can be beneficial and can help you thrive. But sometimes life’s demands exceed your ability to cope, and stress can become a threat to both your emotional and physical health.

Learning how to cope with stress is important, and there are different ways to manage and minimize stress in your life. The Ohio State University has free, confidential resources that can help you manage stress better.

Through the CareAllies Stress Management lifestyle program, a Health Coach will work with you online or by phone to develop strategies to cope with your stress. (CareAllies password is “buckeyes”; click on Lifestyle Programs.) You’ll receive a stress reduction toolkit that includes a workbook, a relaxation CD, and other tools to help you succeed. All benefit-eligible faculty and staff and enrolled adult dependents who have completed the PHA and authorized its release to the health plan can take advantage of this program by calling 800-579-0534.
The University Faculty and Staff Assistance Program (UFSAP) offers free counseling by licensed, experienced professionals for stress, personal or work-related issues, and marriage and family relationships. The program also provides training and skills development in stress management in the workplace, conflict management and resolution, and grief and loss. Services are available to all Ohio State employees and their immediate families, and coverage in a university health plan is not required.

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Quick Facts About Stress

75% of the general population experiences at least "some stress" every two weeks (National Health Interview Survey).
Almost 9 out of 10 adults have experienced serious stress. More than 4 out of 10 adults suffer adverse health effects from stress, and some estimates suggest that 75% to 90% of all physician visits are for stress-related complaints.
The effects of stress may lead to actual medical illnesses, including heart problems, stomach problems, high blood pressure, and headaches. Stress affects the immune system, which protects us from many serious diseases. It also contributes to the development of alcoholism, obesity, suicide, drug and cigarette addiction, and other harmful behaviors. Stress speeds up the aging process, memory loss, hair loss, and can lead to an increase in body weight or the building of more fat.
An estimated $300 billion, or $7,500 per employee, is spent annually in the United States on stress-related compensation claims, reduced productivity, absenteeism, health insurance costs, direct medical expenses (nearly 50% higher for workers who report stress), and employee turnover.