Stress and its Effects on Your Health
How stressed would you say you are right now? Have you noticed it affecting your day-to-day life or even your health?
Hopefully in today’s society we are not be in any imminent danger, but the stresses of everyday life are very real and can take a toll on our general wellbeing. While very common, chronic stress certainly can feel like a very personal and misunderstood part of your health.
In this article we will give a general overview of what stress is, how it affects the body and ways to manage and reduce stress.
What is stress?
Before looking at the physiological occurrences that surround stress, it’s important to understand why stress may be present in the first place.
From an evolutionary standpoint, stress is a very important part of survival. When we are faced with a life-threatening situation, such as being chased by a predator or witnessing an oncoming natural disaster, our bodies have evolved to deliver as many performance-enhancing capabilities as it can that will allow for the best chance of survival. Our senses are heightened so we can be more aware of our surroundings and the body pools its resources and energy into the most vital functions.
When our senses perceive something as a threat, signals are sent to the brain and stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol are released.
In limited quantities, these stress hormones are good and help us get through the day with a healthy level of awareness and energy. However, if these same hormones constantly surge through the body then it becomes more difficult to keep up with and the body experiences wear and tear from continuously being on high alert.
What happens when there is chronic stress?
This list is not meant to add yet another stressor in your life, but rather help you see the need for proper stress management so that these symptoms do not occur. This list is not exhaustive. Chronic stress may, over time, lead to:
Increased blood pressure and vascular disease
Decrease in fertility
Erectile dysfunction
Depression, anxiety, other mental health concerns
Increased anger
Decreased immune function
Greater likelihood of illness, both short term and long term
Slower healing of wounds
How do I manage my stress?
Stress is simply a perceived threat to one’s life or wellbeing. Stress happens when we feel we are not in control of our situation. Recognizing what may be causing the stress is the preliminary management technique. By putting a name to the stressor and walking yourself through whether or not it is truly a threatening situation, you will be able to further manage and resolve what is bothering you.
Other helpful stress management tools may include the following:
Regular exercise (ideally 20-30 minutes daily)
Proper rest (sleeping 7-9 hours each night for adults)
Eating a balanced diet
Meditation
Spirituality or Religion
Professional help from a therapist or other specialist
Sometimes life may just be stressful, especially when there are major life changing events such as divorce, death of a loved one or a newborn baby. It’s okay to not feel your best in these situations, but finding ways to cope with these difficult moments are paramount. Consider implementing some of these coping mechanisms in your life when you are feeling stressed:
Lean on your support system (friends, family, mentors, therapists, even pets)
Find something humorous or optimistic to fill time with
Consider keeping a journal or a gratitude journal
Spend time doing a relaxing hobby you enjoy
Remembering what you are in control of
Conclusion:
We all have moments that feel particularly stressful. This is normal and part of what allows us to be productive and take care of ourselves. However, finding ways to manage stress is incredibly important as we navigate the challenges that may present themselves to us. By practicing proper management and coping strategies, you will feel better equipped to confidently and healthfully get through life’s stressors.
