Phase 3―Entrenched Cumulative Stress This phase occurs when the above phases continue to be ignored. Stress starts to create a deeper impact on career, family life and personal well-being. | increased use of alcohol, smoking, non-prescription drugs depression physical and emotional fatigue loss of sex drive ulcers marital discord crying spells intense anxiety rigid thinking withdrawal restlessness sleeplessness | The help of medical and psychological professionals is highly recommended. |
Phase 4―Severe/ Debilitating Cumulative Stress Reaction This phase is often considered “self-destructive” and tends to occur after 5 to 10 years of continued stress. | careers end prematurely asthma heart conditions severe depression lowered self-esteem/self-confidence inability to perform one's job inability to manage personal life withdrawal uncontrolled anger, grief, rage suicidal or homicidal thinking muscle tremors extreme chronic fatigue over-reaction to minor events agitation frequent accidents carelessness, forgetfulness paranoia SOURCES AND CAUSES [19] Living in a constant conflict relationship (marital) Feeling trapped in poverty Playing a care giver role for someone with significant illness or disability Been overwhelmed by a job or feeling trapped in a career that doesn’t feel right Living with unresolved childhood trauma The death of a spouse, children or loved ones. Marriage filling for divorced/separation from a spouse or committed relationship partner/single parent. Losing contact with a loved one/Bereavement Hospitalization of one’s self or family member (s) Injury or illness of one’s self of family member (s) Been abused or neglected Bankruptcy/money/ financial problem Unemployment Legal problems/tenancy issue Sleep problems Children’s problem at school Receiving a promotion or pay rise at work Buying a home Excessive job demands Job insecurity | Significant intervention from professionals. |