Stress is the need to
make a difficult or undesirable change in order to adapt to events and
situations in life. We all go through it at some point or another. Whether
it’s financial worries, work-related troubles, tension with your partner or
perhaps your children’s behavior at home; stress is a normal part of life.
But stress isn’t always bad. It can relieve monotony, allow
for goal-directed behavior and allow us to experience joy; however, when we
experience too much stress, it can start to affect our health.
Our bodies are designed to experience stress and react to it
as a defense mechanism to avoid danger. In our high-speed, digital, 24/7 world,
we are exposed to higher levels of stress than previous generations coming at
us in all directions day and night.
With this high-stress environment, it’s no wonder that
stress is the #1 universal factor contributing to major disease. Stress can increase
the chances of illness from
heart disease, stomach issues, depression and anxiety, drug use, and even
cancers.
Avoiding stress is a good idea, but let’s be realistic,
that’s not always possible. So instead, let’s focus on ways we can cope with stress.
- Define the problem. Are you experiencing acute or chronic stress? Acute stress is the type of stress we feel when we have a deadline to make, a test to take, or right after a car accident. It is short-lived and goes away. Chronic stress is more long-term, possibly stemming from an issue that has not been resolved, such as a traumatic event for an extended period of time.
- Say “No”. You can’t do it all. It’s important to learn when to say “No” and know your limits. Adjust your schedule as needed to reduce stress.
- Get organized. Being organized can help prevent stress. It can be as simple as keeping your children’s book sacks in the same spot so there isn't a panic two minutes before the bus arrives for school.
- Exercise. Being active is great for stress. Exercise releases endorphins in your brain which help to boost your mood.
- Medication. Sometimes, if your stress is chronic and the above tips are not working for you, you may need to talk to your doctor about possible medications that can help.
The bottom line is don’t let stress get the best of you.
Talk to your doctor about your stress levels and remember that it’s OK to put
yourself first once in a while.
Family Medicine
337-993-3282
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