Center for Healthy Living focusing on stress management in upcoming workshop series

The Center for Healthy Living is bringing stress management to the forefront in an upcoming workshop series beginning Sept. 28. The six-week session will meet noon to 12:50 p.m. on Wednesdays through Nov. 2 in Krannert Building, Room G007.

According to Cheryl Laszynski, registered nurse, certified health and wellness coach at the Center for Healthy Living who is leading the workshop series, nobody is immune to stress. Laszynski says a majority of people in today's world are directly or indirectly affected by stress -- at work, home or both.

"The prevalence of stress in today's society along with the physical and mental effects on our bodies and minds mandates the need to address this topic and bring as much awareness and support services to the subject," she says.

Laszynski says symptoms of stress can present in a variety of ways. Though some may be short-term reactions to stressors, such as heart palpitations and dizziness, continued stress can cause serious, long-term complications. Some examples include:

* Depression.
* Sleep disorders.
* Digestive disorders.
* Muscle tension.
* Relationship problems.
* Loss of self-esteem.
* Poor work performance.

"Stress has also been linked to the development of chronic diseases such as heart disease, kidney disease and cancer," she says.

During the workshop sessions, Laszynski will help participants identify their sources of stress, learn how their bodies and minds react to stress and identify strategies for balancing work and home life demands. Information will be provided on how mindfulness, self-care, relaxation techniques and building resilience can be used to help better control busy lives and the associated stress that might present itself. 

Register by Sept. 23 by calling 49-45505. The classroom setting of the workshop will allow for increased collaboration among participants to share their challenges and success on stress management.

Ongoing support and referral services are also available through the Center for Healthy Living's Employee Assistance Program.

Center for Healthy Living services are available for benefits-eligible faculty and staff and spouses/same-sex domestic partners and adult dependents covered on a Purdue medical plan. Workshops are offered free of charge.

For added convenience, the center is open 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday. Lab hours are 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. For medical consultation after hours or on weekends, contact the Anthem NurseLine at 888-279-5449 for assistance.