While you can't completely avoid all stress, you can take control of your life and make it less painful.

Simple things like avoiding spicy foods can help.

But if you just ignore your stress, it will get worse. It can also make you sick. The latest medical literature suggests that either stress overload or underlaod may be hazardous to your health. In fact, some authorities believe that up to 90 percent of all illness is stress-related.

While all chronic problems should be checked by a physician, teens who suffer from stomach ulcers or ulcerative colitis (ulcers in the colon with resulting cramps, bloody feces and diarrhea) need regular medical care and possible psychological therapy to further reduce stress.