Preface (from our Original Stress Management Workbook, published in 1980. These words were carefully chosen at the time of our original writing. They ring true today, in a New Millennium... more than 30 years after they were written ... and I dare say, these words will likely remain true ... into the foreseeable future. I will expand on this preface for the New edition, but for now, to avoid confusion, I leave it as it was written and published in 1981. Keep in mind, that, if you are an individual who wants to TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR LIFE AND HEALTH, think carefully about these words, StepWisely(R) and join me ... walk with me ... as I create, Bit by Bit ... The NEW Stress Managment Workbook. I welcome your participation and feedback. Enjoy! Dr. Mike Michael Frank Mascia, MD, MPH October 17, 2011)
The twentieth century has been marked by tremendous advances in the theory and practice of medicine. Phenomenal scientific and tech- nological discoveries have found their way into medical practice. Peo- ple have grown to expect certain seemingly miraculous results from the institutions and providers of medical care, and often, the expec- tation is that the "impossible" can be achieved. There is, however, increasing popular awareness that modern med- icine cannot perform miracles despite the available science and tech- nology. Professionals and laymen alike are learning that advances in medicine, however dazzling, cannot make up for life styles that breed pathology. Life style is now being recognized as a major factor in the development of many of our modern medical problems. General atti- tude and behavior are clearly linked to the individual's health status. Moreover, most medical problems seem to occur more frequently with increasing stress, and environmental exposure appears to be a factor in most illnesses. Expectations appear to have an effect on health and well-being. Such varied problems as cancer, cirrhosis of the liver, mal- nutrition, pancreatitis, ulcers, high blood pressure, headache, food poi- soning, voodoo deaths, and others appear to be influenced by both internal and environmental factors, both emotional and physical. Professionals and laymen are beginning to realize and teach that the individual has a great responsibility in the promotion of his own health and the prevention of his own disease. The concept of self-care is steadily gaining acceptance. People are beginning to realize that they have control over certain factors that affect their health and well- being. But although these concepts are being accepted more readily, the methods for their application and general use have not been widely available. THE STRESS MANAGEMENT WORKBOOK is designed for the individual who takes the concept of self-care seriously and wants to do whatever he* can to promote his own health and well-being, as well as take advantage of the best that modem medicine has to offer. Although the book can be read rather quickly, the material is de- signed to be implemented gradually and thoughtfully in conjunction with advice from your personal physician. It is expected that your initial planned changes may take up to two years or more to institute. ""Throughout the book we have used such constructions as "the individual... he" solely for the economy of language. Our usage of personal pronouns is not, in any way, intended to imply any connotation of sexual role discrimination. | 
