Chronic physical or emotional stress can wreak long-term havoc on the health of your heart, immune system, digestive system and reproductive system. Not only does it put you at higher risk for conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure and depression, but chronic stress may interfere with the smallest details of day-to-day life, like sleep quality and energy levels.
It is essential to recognise the symptoms of chronic stress to actively work towards reducing its impact on your overall health — understanding how to reduce and manage stress should be a priority for any individual looking to boost their health and well-being. Read on to learn more about how chronic stress puts your health at risk and effective ways you can reduce its impending impact.
What is chronic stress, and how can it affect your health?
Stress is an emotion that affects us all, but for some people, it can become chronic. Chronic stress arises when the body's defences are activated in response to a perceived threat or prolonged pressure from stressful situations (e.g., financial problems or family issues). Stress-related fatigue is one common symptom of chronic stress and may cause difficulty concentrating, sleeplessness, headaches and other symptoms.
Stress can also have a long-term effect on our health, such as weakening the immune system, which increases the risk of depression and anxiety, worsening existing conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases and even cognitive decline with age. It's important to recognise when we feel chronically stressed so we can take proactive steps to reduce its impact on our daily lives.
The signs and symptoms of chronic stress
Stress can have long-term effects on the mind and body. One of the most obvious signs of chronic stress is extreme fatigue — the body cannot cope with a prolonged influx of stress hormones.
Other symptoms of chronic stress may include:
- Difficulty concentrating
- Mood swings or irritability
- Digestive problems such as nausea, diarrhoea or constipation
- Changes in appetite
- Sleep problems
- Weight gain
- Changes in libido
- Hyperstimulation
Stress is often physical as well — people who experience chronic stress may be more prone to headaches and an overall sensation of aches throughout the body. It is important to note that these symptoms can develop and worsen over time if left untreated.
If you have been experiencing any of these signs or symptoms for a prolonged period, it is essential to seek professional help. Consulting with your doctor or health professional is the best way to determine what type of regime or treatment plan could be most beneficial for you. Don't neglect your health and well-being, as small changes today can make a world of difference in the future. Take responsibility, act promptly and talk to a qualified practitioner today to get your health back on track.
How to reduce chronic stress in your life
There are steps you can take to reduce symptoms and better support your overall well-being. These include:
- Identifying stressors — The first step to reducing chronic stress is to identify the triggers causing you stress. This can be anything from your job, to your relationships, to your living situation. Once you know what is causing you angst and stress, you can start to address these concerns.
- Making time for yourself — Even if it is just a few minutes each day, self-care can calm your mind and body, easing feelings of angst and anxiety. Making time for yourself can include anything from reading your favourite book to taking a bath or going for a walk. Doing something that you enjoy will help to reduce your stress levels.
- Exercising — Exercise is a great way to reduce stress as it releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting properties. Additionally, exercise may help to improve sleep quality, which may also reduce stress levels.
- Eating a healthy diet — Eating a healthy, balanced diet is important for your overall health and may also help to reduce stress levels. Foods that are high in nutrients and antioxidants may help to support the nervous system and protect the body against the adverse effects of stress.
- Herbal adaptogens are a category of herbs that may support the nervous system and help the body cope with stress.
- Seeing a therapist — If you are struggling to cope with chronic stress, seeing a therapist may be helpful. A therapist may help you identify and address the root causes of your stress and provide coping mechanisms and problem-solving strategies.
Implementing these techniques can have a lasting, positive effect on your well-being. Taking practical steps towards creating a healthy and fulfilled lifestyle is key to being free from chronic stress. With changes in attitude, behaviours and habits using tailored solutions that work well for you, you can bring balance back into your life.
The benefits of reducing chronic stress
Chronic stress may lead to mental exhaustion, high blood pressure, sleep disturbances, heart problems, weight gain and low moods. Fortunately, there are many ways we may reduce chronic stress. Developing coping strategies can open the door to improved quality of life, and you’ll experience benefits such as;
- With less stress, you can stay more productive at work and elsewhere.
- By taking control of our stress, we can achieve a better quality of life.
- Reducing stress also increases our ability to think more clearly, boosting creativity and decision-making.
- Reducing chronic stress may help us get enough sleep, feel energised throughout the day and improve moods over time.
When you become more mindful of your emotional well-being, you change your relationship with stress for the better. Managing the reactivity of your nervous system helps dramatically reduce the negative impact chronic stress can have on your physical and mental health. If you have any questions, browse our blog to learn more about how you can improve your health holistically.
