OTHER PERCEPTIONS THAT CAUSE STRESS

Emergency reaction: Stress situations cause mobilization of extra resources to meet increased demands (i.e. accident rescue efforts, students cramming late at night).

Vigilance: Always on the lookout for danger or a problem (i.e. police, firefighters). Poses a serious stress hazard in long term exposure without relief. Vigilance is necessary to prevent harm (i.e. air traffic controllers).

On the edge: Pushing the limits of one's capacity -- overworked, under-rested. Trying to do too much in too little time. Unrealistic expectations: Under pressure by having very high expectations of self and others. The "could haves" and "should haves" cause feelings of guilt if goals are not met.

What are some of your unrealistic expectations?