The impact of stress
Stress has accounted for almost 60% of illness according to a recent study on work-related stress.
This is a staggering percentage, I think it is important that we take a look at our stress and look at the impact it can have on our bodies. In recent months I have met with many therapists an clients alike who would agree that not dealing with your stress can lead to physical ailments and can affect our bodies in many ways. The body adjusts to the levels of stress which drains much of our energy and leaves us exhausted.
Studies have shown that life events contribute to stress having an impact on our health and wellbeing. Research has interestingly highlighted ‘everyday hassles’ (Lazarus et al 1985); which could be perceived as minor having a greater impact on our wellbeing than a significant life event.
The following may be signs that you are stressed and need to give yourself and your situation some attention.
- Dizziness
- Tension in Jaw
- Grinding Teeth
- Chronic Fatigue
- Decreased Sex Drive
- Weight Gain
- Skin problems and rashes
- Muscular aches and pains
- Back pain
- Shoulder pain
- Obesity
- Insomnia
- Emotional and Behavioural outbursts
- Ulcers
- Low in energy
It can cause or lead to;
- Heart Disease
- Stroke
- Hypertension
- Diabetes
- Digestive Disorders
- Abdominal Pain
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome
This list is quite extensive and being aware that these symptoms can be linked to stress levels is important. In much of the research, I have found our bodies and its reactions are linked to our emotional wellbeing.
We may experience a stress reaction many times a day and this results in 1400 biochemical events occurring in your body, if this goes under our radar there is no doubt that we wouldn’t be affected. A typical person may experience this more than 10 times in a day.
The most important thing to remember is to try and stay in tune with your body and self-care practices. Keeping in touch with our stress levels can be difficult especially if you are in stressful environments. Some of the above will be an indication that stress is present in your life. It is about taking stock of your situation and taking care of yourself, the famous quote from Loreal springs to mind “Your worth it”.
There are so many tried and tested ways to deal with stress, take a look at my post about ways to relieve your stress. What you are aiming for is balance and keeping the energy tank full, we must nourish all parts of ourselves.
If you are still finding it difficult to manage your stress speak with your GP and or make an appointment with a counsellor or psychotherapist. Online counselling is just as effective with alleviating stress as face to face counselling, and in this climate, this may be something to consider if you are considering counselling.