Stress

Everyone experiences stress in their life. Stress becomes problematic when we do not have the tools to manage stress. Stress reduction, mindfulness, good nutrition, exercise and good self-care can reduce the symptoms of stress.

The Mayo clinic states that stress symptoms may be affecting our health, even though we may not be aware of it. One may think illness is to blame for that nagging headache, the frequent insomnia or decreased productivity at work. But stress may actually be the culprit.

Common Effects of Stress:

Indeed, stress symptoms can affect our bodies, our thoughts and feelings, and our behavior. Being able to recognize common stress symptoms can help us managing them. Stress that’s left unchecked can contribute to many health problems, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity and diabetes.

Common Effects of Stress on Your Body

• • Headache
  • Muscle tension or pain
  • Chest pain
  • Fatigue
  • Change in sex drive
  • Stomach upset
  • Sleep problems

Common Effects of Stress on Your Mood

• • Anxiety
  • Restlessness
  • Lack of motivation or focus
  • Feeling overwhelmed
  • Irritability or anger
  • Sadness or depression

Common Effects of Stress on Your Behavior

• • Overeating or undereating
  • Angry outbursts
  • Drug or alcohol abuse
  • Tobacco use
  • Social withdrawal
  • Exercising less often

How can Stress be Treated:

It is critical that people suffering from stress learn stress reduction. Many people dealing with stress claim they do not have time to relax. This is exactly what they need to do. Psychotherapy can provide a structured place where people can talk about their stress, challenge thoughts that may be contributing to stress and define a structured plan of stress management.  Relaxation, meditation, and Reiki can all be helpful tools in dealing with stress.