What is Stress ?
Stress is the feeling that is experienced by almost everyone at some point in their lives. It is a sense of being overwhelmed or needing to handle more than one can. It causes the body to react as if it is in danger. Hormones can cause a racing heart, rapid breathing, and a burst of energy. Day to day stress from work or family is often fleeting and does not cause any lasting effects. Feeling stressed once in a while is completely normal, and it is a natural response to many situations. When it is not appropriately managed or becomes severe, however, stress can lead to many more serious health problems.
Chronic Stress and Health
Because feelings of stress are natural, it can be difficult to know the point at which it becomes a more serious problem. Chronic stress can lead to many ailments including a headache, trouble sleeping, upset stomach, and back pain. It can also lead to a weakened immune system that makes fighting off infections more difficult. When stress gets to a point where it is having a negative impact on one's day to day life over an extended period, it is important to find a way to get it under control.
How To Better Manage Stress
For many people, finding ways to manage stress does not require the help of a doctor. By identifying the things that cause them the most stress and either avoiding them or learning how to cope with them, they can live peaceful, more serene lives. Others can find healthy ways to relieve stress such as getting more exercise or spending time engaging in enjoyable hobbies.
Effects Of Stress and Mental Health
In some cases, stress can lead to or worsen mental health disorders such as anxiety or depression. In these situations, medical intervention may be required. Doctors often prescribe anti-depressants to help patients deal with unmanageable stress. They may also refer patients to therapists who can help teach them better ways to manage stress and tension. Learning these life skills often eliminates the need for medication and other types of long-term care.
Lifestyle Changes to Help Minimize Stress
While stress is a reasonable and sometimes beneficial reaction to specific situations, it can have many undesirable effects on the body. When left untreated over an extended period, stress can lead to numerous health problems and substantially reduce one's quality of life. The long-term effects of remaining in a tense state can lead to everything from depression to heart disease. When stress is managed through lifestyle changes, medication, or therapy, however, sufferers are typically able to break free of living with constant stress. In doing so, they can reduce the chances of suffering from more severe problems in the future.