Health Tips
Stress & Your Health
Stress and anxiety levels are on the rise with the current changes so many are facing with the changes in our economy. Changes are happening rapidly, and our coping skills to adapt to those changes are being challenged. It's important for your health and your relationships to deal with the stress in a positive fashion and provide support for one another. We all react differently when we feel threatened, and it's important to be aware of how we react, and to take responsibly for ourselves and our actions. Sometimes we just need to take a break, even if it's to walk away for five minutes and regroup. Right now support of family and friends, exercise, healthy eating and a sense of humor goes along way. Be there for yourself. Be there for others.
What are some of the most common causes of stress?
Stress can arise for a variety of reasons. Stress can be brought about by a traumatic accident, death, or emergency situation. Stress can also be a side effect of a serious illness or disease.
There is also stress associated with daily life, the workplace, and family responsibilities. It's hard to stay calm and relaxed in our hectic lives. As women, we have many roles: spouse, mother, caregiver, friend, and/or worker. With all we have going on in our lives, and the recent changes in our countries economical situations, it seems almost impossible to find ways do de-stress. But it's important to find those ways. Your health depends on it.
What are some early signs of stress?
Stress can take on many different forms, and can contribute to symptoms of illness. Common symptoms include headache, sleep disorders, difficulty concentrating, short-temper, upset stomach, job dissatisfaction, low morale, depression, and anxiety.
How do women tend to react to stress?
We all deal with stressful things differently, our support systems and environment have a large impact on how we deal. Short term, daily stressors are a part of daily living, however long-term stress can have a negative effect on our health. Stress triggers changes in our bodies and makes us more likely to get sick. Ongoing stress can lead to over eating or not eating at all, physical symptoms, lack of energy, depression, irritability, skin problems like hives, which can all lead to problems in relationships.
How can you help handle your stress?
*Communicate with your partner, be supportive of each other during these difficult times. The 'blame-game' only leads to disagreements and increased stress.
*Relax. It's important to unwind. Find out what works for you, maybe it's deep breathing, yoga, meditation, exercise, listen to soothing music, or read for a few minutes.
*Take time for yourself. It's important to care for yourself, and do not feel guilty!
No matter how busy your schedule, no matter how many people need your time, take at least 15 -30 minutes every day to do something for yourself.
Take a walk, call a friend, or take a bath! Those that depend on you will appreciate the more relaxed you.
*Sleep. Sleeping is a great way to help both your body and your mind. Get 7 - 8 hours of sleep every night, and take advantage of a nap whenever possible.
*Eat right. Try to fuel up with fruits, vegetables, and proteins. Don't be fooled by the jolt you get from caffeine or sugar.
*Get moving. Believe it or not, getting physical activity not only helps relieve your tense muscles, but helps your mood too! Your body makes certain chemicals, called endorphins, before and after you work out. They are naturally occurring chemicals in your body, that help to reduce stress levels, and improve your sense of well being.
The list goes on about how you can deal with stress, find out what works for you and implement it into your daily routine. At SHE, women's health and dealing with stress are important issues. Stop by and check out what we can recommend to assist you in dealing with stress and taking care of yourself.
Thank you to the Office on Women's Health in the Department of Health and Human Services for their valuable resources on stress and women.
Call Today: 612-735-2003
