HOW STRESS AFFECTS YOUR BODY Odeta Stuikys Rose
Stress is a natural life experience, every single person experience stress from time to time. Any daily life problem like work overload in office, family problems, personal problems can trigger stress.
Our body responds to stress by hypothalamus (hypothalamus – a tiny control tower in our brain, decides to send out the order in the stress hormone). These stress hormones are the same ones that trigger our body’s “fight or flight” response, heart rate increase, breath quickness and our muscle ready for action. This response creates to protect our body in an emergency.
“Stress affects our body, even though you might not realize it, you may think illness is the reason for that headache, your frequent insomnia, your decreased productivity at work. But stress may actually be the reason� said Odeta Stuikys Rose.
Being able to understand stress symptoms can help you in managing them, stress can cause too many health problems like high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity and diabetes, weakened immune system, insomnia and tense muscles.
Here are common effects of stress on our body • Headache • Muscle tension or pain • Chest pain • Fatigue • Stomach upset • Sleep problems
On our mood • Anxiety • Restlessness • Lack of motivation or focus • Feeling overwhelmed • Irritability or anger • Sadness or depression
On our behavior • Overeating • Angry outbursts • Drug or alcohol abuse • Tobacco use • Social withdrawal • Exercising less often
Tips to manage stress Taking steps to manage your stress can have many health benefits. Here are stress management tips: • Regular Exercise • Relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, yoga, tai chi • Socializing with family and friends • Setting aside time for hobbies
Always try to remember to find active ways to manage your stress. Inactive ways like watching T.V. using internet and playing the mobile game may seem relaxing, but they may increase your stress over the long term. And be sure to get complete sleep and a healthy diet.