Stress is emotional and physical 1._ caused by our response to pressures from the outside world. It is almost impossible to live without some stress, and most people wouldn’t want to because it also adds some spice and excitement to their lives. A certain amount of pressure brings out the best in our work, however problems appear if stress 2._ out of control and 3.____ our health.
Too much stress is bad for employees and employers alike. In the UK, for example, 4._ illnesses are the main cause of lost working days, and companies are 5._ to consider their costs and legal implications. 6._ confirm that major causes of work-related stress today tend to be overwork, 7._ hours and poor communication, not only between employees and management, but also among employees themselves. The most common stress reactions include tension, irritability, 8._ to concentrate, problems with memory and a variety of physical symptoms: headaches, sweaty palms, shortness of breath and fast heartbeat. Emotional signs may include feelings of frustration and loneliness, which in turn can 9._ negative thoughts and thus cause various health problems such as migraine, insomnia and depression. If you feel 10._, think of ways to 11._ stress. The first step is to find out what stresses you most. Is there anything you can do to change those situations? Think of what you can do to reduce the intensity of your reaction to them. Can you reduce your 12._ to stress? (e.g. take a break, leave the office and eat out, instead at your desk). If you 13._ more effort into defining your priorities, and consequently (re)organising your schedule, you can, even in the short run, reduce your 14.____ and save yourself some time and nerves.
