Researchers have found specific instances that are able to be pinpointed which increase the stress level in all individuals. Some of these life events include the death of a spouse, divorce, jail time, change in financial situation, sexual difficulty, pregnancy, mortgage, change in residence, change in church activities, going back to school, change in sleep habits, vacation, and minor violations of the law. In reality any major change in life events or additions – positive or negative – will be perceived by the body as stress.
Stress related physical illness will include backaches, insomnia, cancer, fibromyalgia, endometriosis, absense of menstruation, changes in sexuality, sexual dysfunction, headaches, colitis, irritable bowl syndrome, colds, infection, dermatology changes and emotional disorders such as anxiety, depression and sleep disturbances.
Eliminating all stress from your life is completely impossible but, by implementing some stress reduction techniques, many people are able to subdue some of the harmful effects of the hormonal responses. Some stress management techniques that are useful to everyone are following a healthy well rounded diet, getting regular exercise and making time for uninterrupted sleep for 7-9 hours each night.
Other techniques used include deep breathing, meditation, imagery and staying mindful of the present situation without becoming overwhelmed by everything else on the ‘to do’ list in life.
Chronic and significant stress will cause damaging health problems to all that experience it. The real question is how much damage control will you do by using stress reduction techniques and emotional support. Through appropriate intervention even those undergoing consistent stress will be able to reduce any long-term effects on their health.
Resources:
MedlinePlus: Stress
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/stress.html
Carnegie Mellon University: How Stress Influences Disease
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/04/120402162546.htm
MayoClinic.com: Constant Stress Puts Your Health at Risk
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/stress/SR00001
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