What Stress Can Do To You

Everyone experiences a certain amount of stress in their lives. Some stress some of the time is normal.

In fact, since our prehistoric origins, the stress response has been vital for motivating us to react during times of crisis.

Today, we are not literally dealing with "hunt or be hunted" on a regular basis, although, there are certainly times that may feel that way!

Our stress hormones can help us to meet strict timelines, and deal with situations we find difficult in our daily lives.

Physical

The physical way we experience stress can vary. Some individuals become extremely irritable with their family members and coworkers.

Others describe a vice-like feeling of tightness in their chest or shoulders that makes it hard to breathe. Many people report cardiovascular issues like a racing heart and profuse sweating.

Some individuals suffer excruciating headaches or joint and muscle stiffness.

Gastrointestinal issues may be experienced, like severe stomach pains and diarrhea. Stress and negative emotions often go hand in hand with poor physical health.

Experiencing emotional stress jump starts the production of cortisol.

If this happens on regular basis the excess cortisol begins to break down the body's neurological, gastrointestinal, musculoskeletal and immune systems.

Emotional

Often, it is the emotional side of stress that we initially experience. It is our body's way of warning us "Hey, I'm not OK here... pay attention."

Unfortunately, many people have become accustomed to ignoring the seriousness of messages from their inner selves. They prefer to self-medicate, or deny their stress altogether. These are dangerous habits to get into.

Society has taught us, particularly men, that feeling and expressing feelings is wrong. Denying your feelings can make things much worse.

Chronic or unrelenting stress, if ignored, can manifest as a physical response in the body in the form of illness, or emotionally as depression.

Left unchecked, stress can be very damaging to a person's health. This will compound the problem. This can lead to adverse effects on other aspects of a person's life.

If you find yourself experiencing any of these signs, stop and reflect. Review your life and your priorities to eliminate, or at least reduce, some of your stressors.

Symptoms of stress such as acne, bald patches and dry skin may be visible and obvious. Although the mental and emotional damage may not be visible, their effects on self and loved ones usually are.

If your stress levels are left untreated, you are likely to develop even more serious health problems such as heart disease, obesity and depression.

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