Stress is the body’s reaction to unfamiliar situations. Stress is a normal part of everyday life, and so is our response to it. When you feel threatened, a chemical reaction occurs in your body that allows you to act in a way to protect yourself. This reaction is known as “fight-or-flight”, or the stress response. During this process, your heart rate increases, your breathing quickens, your muscles start to tighten, and your blood pressure rises.
Some causes of internal and external stress include major life changes (pregnancy, getting married, or a new job), relationship problems, financial responsibilities, and academic pressure as well. Stress may be affecting your health, even though you might not realize it. Stress can affect your body, thoughts, feelings, and behavior.
The effects of stress on your emotional wellbeing are:
- Constant worrying
- Inability to concentrate
- Irritability (agitated behavior – twiddling your fingers, clenched jaw, grinding teeth)
- Angry outbursts
- Social withdrawal – decreased contact with family and friends
- Overeating or undereating
The most common physical symptoms of chronic stress are:
- Sweating
- Headaches
- Digestion issues – nausea or constipation
- Muscle tension
- Increased heart rate
- Weight gain
Here are some coping mechanisms and ways you can manage your stress better.
- Identify what’s causing your stress. Ask yourself about your feelings and the problems that you’re having. Is it something that you can control or is it always going to be an issue?
- Exercise on a regular basis. It’s important to make time to exercise at least 3 times a week if your schedule permits.
- Utilize techniques for physical relaxation. Activities such as deep breathing, yoga, and meditation will make a huge difference in your overall outlook and help you to relax.
- Socialize with family and friends. Talk to someone close to you about what’s on your mind. You’ll feel much better when your feelings are out in the open, instead of just bottling them up.
- Find a hobby that you can enjoy. Read a book, draw, or listen to your favorite music.
- Journal your thoughts. If you don’t feel comfortable talking to someone, writing down your feelings is a great way to get it out of your system.
- Sleep! Getting enough sleep is key. Sleep deprivation can negatively affect your mood. Make sure you are sleeping at least 6 -7 hours per night.
Stress is inevitable. It’s always important to have a plan so that your stress levels aren’t getting too out of control. Finding stress-reducing routines that work well for you is the first and most important step of increasing side effects of stress, both emotional and physical. Learning how to manage your stress takes time and practice.
However, if you have tried all above steps and your stress becomes more difficult to manage, or if you start to develop more serious symptoms (chest pain, difficulty breathing, or irregular menstrual cycle) it is important to seek medical attention immediately.
Written by Dami Falade
