How Stress Affects Us

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Stress is good. Well, a LITTLE stress is good. A lot of stress, however, can take a toll on a person’s health and well-being.

Our bodies are equipped with a stress response to help us react when faced with a threat, such as a vehicle that suddenly swerves in front us. In this instance, the stress response releases hormones that help us move quickly from the gas pedal to the brake to avoid a collision. Once the emergency passes, our bodies begin to recover from the hormone rush.

With today’s hectic lifestyles, however, many people often find themselves under stress all day, constantly running in “emergency mode.” But our bodies need time to relax and recover. Without it, this long-term, or chronic, stress can affect us both physically and mentally.

The health problems linked to chronic stress range from headaches, tension in the back and shoulders and upset stomach to abnormal heartbeat, hardening of the arteries, high blood pressure, low fertility, menstrual pain and acne and eczema breakouts. It has also been known to weaken immunity, making it easier for us to catch cold. It can increase flair-ups of conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, asthma, rheumatoid arthritis and chronic obstructive pulmonary. Likewise, people who suffer from heart conditions are at an increased risk of heart attack, heart failure and stroke when they are under long-term stress.

But chronic stress can affect more than our health. It can affect our mood and behavior, too. Some people may overeat; some might not eat enough. Some may have trouble sleeping or notice a lack of focus that makes even the smallest of problems seem more challenging than they really are. Chronic stress can increase irritability, making us more likely to snap at friends and loved ones. Over time, stress can even lead to anxiety and depression.

Giving our bodies time to recover from life’s stresses, however, can help us stop a little stress from turning into chronic stress. Relaxation, meditation, making connections with others and exercise are common ways to alleviate stress. Spa treatments can help by allowing a person to unwind, whether through personal pampering such as beauty treatments or through meditation or yoga, or through a physical workout such as martial arts classes. Some people also find volunteering, taking a class or joining a gym or club beneficial.

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