April is Stress Awareness Month Published April 2, 2012 By Amber Schwall Civilian Health Promotion Services EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- So, what exactly is stress? Stress is defined by the American Psychological Association as a feeling of emotional or physical tension. There are many different types of stress: acute stress, chronic stress, distress, eustress and perceived stress. One of the most damaging forms of stress is chronic stress; this type of stress is the type that "grinds" on your nerves and your health. It can wear you down fast. It is important to know how to buffer the negative effects of chronic stress in order to decrease the amount of physical effect chronic stress has on our bodies. Some important tips for managing stress include: time management, exercise, healthy diet, sleep, relaxation and social support. In honor of Stress Awareness Month Civilian Health Promotion Services and Family Advocacy will be offering a free six-week stress and anger management class. The class will be on Thursday's from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 in Bldg. 3000 starting April 19 through May 24. For more information please contact Amber Schwall at 277-3667.