16 Sep What are the effects of stress on the body?
What are the effects of stress on the body?
We all know what stress feels like. It can be caused by a variety of things, such as work, family, or financial problems. And while stress is often unavoidable, it’s important to understand the effects that stress can have on our bodies. That’s why it’s important to understand the dangers of stress and how it may lead to serious health problems if left untreated. There are practical ways to manage stress in a healthy way to minimise its impact on your health. Keep reading to get an idea of the different ways stress can affect your body.
Why does stress have such a profound impact on us?
Stress is designed to help us survive. When we are faced with a perceived threat, our bodies go into fight-or-flight mode. This triggers a release of stress hormones, like adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones increase our heart rate and blood pressure and prepare our bodies for emergency action. In the short term, this response can be lifesaving. But when we’re constantly under stress, our bodies never get a break and this can lead to some serious health problems.
How does our fast-paced culture respond to stress?
In our fast-paced, always-connected culture, stress has become a way of life. We are constantly bombarded with news and images that can trigger stress, and we often don’t have the time or resources to properly deal with it. This can lead to chronic stress, which is when stress becomes constant and lasts for an extended period of time.
What are the different ways in which stress affects the body?
When we’re constantly under stress, our bodies never get a break and this can lead to some serious health problems. Here are some of the ways that chronic stress can affect our health:
Physically
Stress can cause a variety of physical problems. It can lead to headaches, an upset stomach, and chest pain. It can also make it difficult to breathe and cause you to feel lightheaded or dizzy. Stress can also have a negative impact on your immune system, making you more susceptible to colds and other illnesses. It affects the different biological systems in the body and can even cause changes in the brain.
For instance, in the central nervous system, stress can lead to an increase in the level of stress hormones, which can have an impact on mood and behaviour. In the digestive system, it can lead to an increase in stomach acids, which can lead to indigestion and other gastrointestinal problems. Within the sexual and reproductive system, it may cause issues with sexual function and fertility.
Chronic stress can lead to a number of serious health problems, both physical and mental. If left untreated, it can cause high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, and diabetes. It can even impact the immune system and increase the risk for colds and other illnesses.
Mentally and emotionally
When you’re constantly under stress, it can be difficult to concentrate or make decisions. You may feel anxious, irritable, angry, or moody. You may also find yourself withdrawing from friends and activities that you normally enjoy. Over time, stress can lead to serious mental health problems, such as depression or anxiety.
Behaviourally
Stress can cause you to turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as smoking or drinking. It can also lead to relationship problems and make it difficult to perform well at work or school. If not managed well, stress can cause uncharacteristic changes that make it difficult to do the things you once enjoyed.
How can you manage stress in a healthy way?
It’s important to find healthy ways to cope with stress and prevent the long-term effects of it permanently affecting your health. Some stress management techniques include exercise, relaxation, and positive thinking but will really depend on what you find effective.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by stress and feel like it’s getting in the way of your day-to-day life, it’s important to seek professional help. A counsellor or therapist can help you identify the sources of your stress and develop a plan to manage it effectively. You should also avoid smoking, drinking alcohol, and overeating, as these may amplify your stress and contribute to poor health or disease.
Manage stress productively with Melbourne Chiropractor
Stress is a part of life, but it doesn’t have to control you. A Melbourne Chiropractor may be able to help you manage your stress in a healthy and constructive manner. This type of care may not only help you address the physical symptoms of stress but it also looks at the root causes of stress and works to correct them. If you’re looking for a natural way to manage stress, consider the help of a Melbourne Chiropractor.
To get started, schedule an appointment with Dr Ari Diskin today and explore how you can manage stress more effectively.