Stress is a basic human response to negative as well as positive life events like celebrations, getting a new job, anticipating danger, perceived challenge or death among other things, so there is nothing wrong with being feeling anxious. Stress is an important part of life, and may be felt when someone is planning to host a party, waiting to get a response from the doctor about a certain issue, or early in the morning after getting to the office. In fact, stress may be considered something positive that urges people to work hard and excel in their jobs.
However, it is important to note that stress should only be a temporary response, and the body is expected to resume normal operations after the initial response. Unfortunately, it is very difficult for the body to relax, rest and reboot itself after feeling stressed especially with the fast paced lifestyle that most people live. Mankind’s ability to relive sad and painful experiences is to blame for high stress levels. Recalling these high stress moments in life can cause anxiety and stress levels to spike.
In addition to basic headaches, high stress levels can also cause life threatening medical conditions.
• Stress can make it very difficult for a person to get a grip of reality – even in its slightest level – because it can interfere with emotional stability.
• Depression may occur if chronic stress goes untreated for a long period of time. It may also trigger a number of medical conditions like heart attacks, cancer, high blood of pressure, lung problems and abnormal sugar levels in the body. Sadness, depression and pain together with too much stress can lead to suicidal tendencies, or even compromise mental stability.
• Stress can also cause excessive weight gain as it may compel a person to overeat.
• Chronic stress weakens the immune system. The stress hormone, cortisol, is known to suppress the body’s immunity.
• Cortisol can also reduce insulin production.
• Stress affects chromosomes, and this may speed up the aging process.
That said, stress leads to compromised health, whichever way you choose to look at it.
Dealing with anxiety and stress takes time. The process involves controlling responses to events, pacifying the mind and stabilizing emotions.
• Spending time with family and friends in the outdoors at regular intervals can help the mind and body to unwind.
• Doing tai-chi or yoga, reading and listening to music can be very helpful in restoring calm and composure.
• Learn from the experiences of other people who have been in similar situations.
• Learn to let go of concerns that do not seem to have any real solution.
Therapeutic techniques and relaxation can help in the process of combating stress as they help a person to overcome challenges without getting hurt.