In today’s world, we work amidst hassles, deadlines, frustrations, and demands. Because of the strict working conditions, stress is inevitable. Fuilure to contain the stress increases the risk of high blood pressure, heart attack and many other health complications.  Linda Mbabazi explores how some standard class people overcome stress.

"I get stressed up by too much work. I handle issues for both the nurses and patients. To conquer all this work stress, I doorknob my own stress, this makes me able to help others solve their stress. Planning ahead of time also relieves me. Being assertive, calm and always able to listen also rids me of a certain percentage of stress. I, also try to learn how to relate with all people, and learning people’s characters.”

Pamela Dzala, Nurse Unit Manager of the Outpatient Department (OPD), at King Faisal Hospital.

"Stress is relative of course. To beat work related stress, I go chatting on the net, listen to music, or watch a movie.”

James Munyaneza, a Marketing and Communication Specialist with Workforce Development Authority (WDA).

"My job at the theater helps me to conquer stress. Before each play, we do respiratory and focusing exercises.  I also stand in a corner, alone; it helps me think straight, after a terrible day. Thinking about my son, also gives me the courage to get out of stressful moments, I get to believe that all I do is for his sake.”

Natacha Muziramakenga, Actress with Isooko and Isho Theater

"Though stress is a part of life, I never allow it to defeat me. Whenever I feel stressed, I listen to Gospel music, watch series or call a beloved one and share my troubles with them.”

Eliud Kagame, Program’s Manager, Contact FM.

"Whenever I am stressed at work, I isolate myself for a while, I go to a quiet place, and think about positive things in my life. Other times, I shout out aloud. I look for a place where no one can hear me, and then I go ahead and shout.”

Cynthia Umurungi, Radio presenter, Contact FM and an events MC

"Stress is natural but dangerous. As a coach, I am always stressed up, especially at the pitch. I get so scared of losing. I take lots of water to overcome stress. In a game of 90 minutes, I at least take four bottles of water.”

Jean Paul Kalisa, Coach, Remera Union Sport.

"Stress is the body’s reaction to change; it requires a physical, mental and emotional response.
I look at the positive side if work challenges me. I imagine the number of jobless Rwandans. I also compare my situation; after all I am not the only person on earth undergoing that particular stress.”

Ferdinand Karega, Customer Care Department, King Faisal Hospital

"To overcome stress, I usually do what makes me happy, like hobbies. This offers an escape root. I do anything recommended by the best of psychologist.”

Eunice Wanjiru, a Kenyan-Rwanda based journalist
 
lindaonly2005@yahoo.com