Amita Adventist Health Care at Home issued the following announcement on July 26.
Summer seems like the season that Chicagoland lives for, with street fairs, carnivals, vacations, grilling, and warm nights. But with the responsibilities that come with work, a rapidly approaching school year, or even scheduling a season’s worth of activities, people across all age groups find themselves regularly afflicted by stress. In fact, a recent Gallup poll shows that more than 4 in 10 Americans frequently feel stressed. People experiencing symptoms such as trouble sleeping, difficulties at home or at work, or constant low-grade headaches often suspect an illness is causing their problems. But the culprit could be stress.
Stress and symptoms related to stress can have negative effects on your body, your mind and how you react to events or interact with others. By recognizing some of the common signs of stress, you can put yourself in a better position to manage your physical and mental health. However, uncontrolled stress can lead to dangerously high blood pressure, significant heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.
Wondering if you might be experiencing some stress-related symptoms? It’s always good to talk with your doctor, especially if you’ve experienced any of the following symptoms over the past 12 months:
Headache or pain in your chest or muscles
Fatigue or exercising less often
Change in sex drive
Sleep problems
Anxiety, restlessness or lack of motivation or focus
Feeling overwhelmed, irritable or angry
Sadness, depression or social withdrawal
Overeating, undereating or stomach discomfort
Tobacco use, drug or alcohol abuse
If you’ve noticed any of these symptoms, a primary care doctor can help you determine the exact cause. You can also try simple strategies for stress relief, such as:
Spending time outside – Even a short walk in your neighborhood or a hike in a nature setting can change how you feel for the better.
Smiling – The act of using the muscles around your eyes and mouth to create a smile helps lower your heart rate and reduces your body’s negative stress responses, even if you don’t feel happy.
Breathing – with intention. Breathe in slowly through your nose, letting your chest and lower belly rise and your abdomen expand. Breathe out just as slowly. Even three deep breaths can reduce stress, but to reap the most benefit, repeat for at least 10 minutes.
Confiding in a friend – When stress is building in your body or mind, spend time with someone who can “be there” for you. Whether it’s in-person or over the phone, time spent connecting with a supportive friend or loved one can be immensely beneficial.
Sweating (from exercise) – A workout that you enjoy gives you a break from whatever is causing your stress and it can improve your mood.
Above all, realize that you’re not alone. A doctor can help you or your loved ones manage stress and find peace of mind.
Call 844.366.0613 to schedule an appointment with a primary care doctor to discuss how coping with stress can lead to significant positive changes in your life.
Original source can be found here.
Source: Amita Adventist Health Care at Home
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