Understanding & Managing Stress
https://psychcentral.com/lib/long-term-effects-of-chronic-stress-on-body-and-mind#1
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/basics/stress-basics/hlv-20049495
"}]},{"component":"hc_column
The body's biological response to demanding situations is called stress. Stress causes the body to release stress hormones, such as cortisol and adrenaline, that help prepare the body to take action by increasing heart and breath rates, and stimulating a state of heightened alertness.
Many factors can trigger the stress response, like danger, psychological pressure, and extreme emotion. Not all stress is bad. In a dangerous situation, stress signals the body to prepare to fight or flee. In non-life-threatening situations, stress can motivate people, such as when they must take a test or interview for a new job. The physical effects of stress usually do not last long. However, when people find themselves living in a nearly constant state of heightened alertness, they cross into another plane of stress called chronic stress."}]},{"component":"hc_column
What we need to be mindful of is unmanaged stress. Chronic, or unmanaged, stress is on-going stress that continues for prolonged periods. Chronic stress acts like a forest fire that smolders for weeks after the raging flames are extinguished. If stress is not tended to and managed, it causes a slow burn that impairs our entire being â mind, body, and spirit.
Potential causes of chronic stress are high-pressure jobs, financial difficulties, or challenging relationships. Chronic stress puts pressure on the body for an extended period of time and can cause a range of symptoms, while increasing the risk of developing certain illnesses. Chronic stress affects the whole body, both physically and psychologically, making daily functioning more challenging. The type and severity of symptoms can vary considerably from person to person.
The COVID-19 pandemic has proven to be a major and chronic life-stressor, worldwide. Those stresses include the risk/fear of getting infected, social isolation, deficient schooling for children, potential for increased domestic conflict, and job/income loss.
When individuals are unable to control the circumstances around them, it becomes essential that they learn to control their responses, in order to manage their stress.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF CHRONIC STRESS:
The stress response causes the release of powerful hormones, adrenaline, and cortisol. Prolonged and repeated activation and release of stress hormones result in elevated blood glucose levels, reducing our ability to fight infections adequately. Chronic stress can cause hypertension and gut disturbances. Chronic stress also depletes endorphins, the body's natural pain killers, resulting in headaches, back pain, and arthritis. Feelings of anxiety or depression, racing thoughts, and general malaise are symptoms of prolonged, unmanaged stress.
In addition to placing a burden on physical health, stress can impact lifestyle and behaviors that affect health. Often, when people are overwhelmed by stress, they are less likely to engage in healthy behaviors. Unhealthy snacking and increased alcohol consumption can begin, while healthy activities are neglected, such as exercise or connecting with friends and family.
HEALTH CONSEQUENCES OF CHRONIC STRESS: After prolonged periods, chronic stress can contribute to a range of physical and mental disorders. Knowing that stress is common, learning to be aware of personal stressors, and recognizing how you react to life's demands are essential as you build a personal Stress Management Toolbox. Simple daily habits like spending time outdoors, exercising, eating balanced meals, drinking plenty of water, and getting adequate sleep are key behaviors to help manage stress and improve your overall health."}]},{"component":"hc_space
