This is helpful during times of physical stress, such as when muscles contract tightly around a broken bone to prevent further injury. But some people respond to emotional stress such as an argument at work with the same clenched muscles, which can lead to a painful muscle contraction headache. Look in the mirror the next time you're in a tense situation. If you see hunched shoulders, a clenched jaw and an angry look, you may be someone whose headaches are caused by a muscle contraction response to anger and worry. Q. I work with a colleague who is unaffected by things that drive me crazy.
Some people are more susceptible to stress than others.
However, there are things you can do to become more stress resistant. You can develop good health habits like eating a balanced diet, exercising, getting enough sleep, and maintaining proper weight. You can break bad habits like smoking and drinking too much. A strong social support system is also invaluable so that you have people to share your feelings with. Q. I sleep for about 5 or 6 hours a night and seem to be fine.