Stress is the body’s natural response to demands, changes, and challenges. It’s something everyone has dealt with from the beginning of time — so why does it seem like everyone you know is more stressed than ever before? In today’s fast-paced world, many people live in an environment where they are constantly on the go, challenging themselves to do more in less time. Multitasking isn’t just a handy skill, for most people, it’s a way of life.
Besides certain somewhat avoidable forms of stress, there are also those that are influenced by unfortunate circumstances and traumatic events — such as living with a long-term illness, working at a job you hate, or being a victim of abuse. Although there are different types and degrees of severity when it comes to stress, one thing is certain — prolonged stress can not only affect a person mentally and emotionally, it can also manifest into physical symptoms.
If you’re dealing with a particularly stressful time in your life, don’t try to manage it all on your own. Contact Blair Wellness Group for stress management treatment in Los Angeles.
Chronic Vs. Acute Stress
Stress affects everyone differently, and not all forms of stress are alike. To better understand how stress affects the body it’s helpful to look at the difference between acute and chronic stress. Acute stress is an intense, short-term form of stress that is often associated with everyday activities. For instance, getting a speeding ticket or going on a first date are examples of acute stress. Once the episode has passed, so too should the stress.
Chronic stress, on the other hand, is long-term. It’s the feelings that are felt when you’re unhappy in your job, dealing with the chronic illness of a loved one, or going through a divorce. Although many causes of chronic stress may be unavoidable, they can (and should) be managed.
Effect of Stress On Your Physical Health
When you’re in a stressful situation, no matter how minor or how serious, the body exhibits a physical response. That response can be as simple as a minor quickening of the heartbeat, or in the most serious and usually chronic cases, it can lead to significant health problems. Chronic stress that goes unmanaged can disrupt nearly every system in your body causing a whole host of issues including digestive upset, suppressed immune system, and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Not only can stress create new physical maladies, but it can also exacerbate existing conditions.
Many people think stress is just something that everyone deals with and they don’t think twice about the headaches, fatigue, and random aches and pains they feel and that they could be related to their stress. Unfortunately, ignoring it won’t make it go away, and in some cases, it can cause serious health issues including the potential for these physical effects:
- Skin conditions
- Sleep problems
- Unexplained pain
- Fertility problems
- Increased risk of heart attack
- Weakened immune system
- Increased risk of high blood pressure
- Erectile dysfunction
- Digestive issues
- Problems with weight loss or gain
Contact Blair Wellness Group for Stress Management Treatment in Beverly Hills, Irvine, and Newport Beach
You may not be able to avoid stress altogether, but you can learn how to manage it and find more positive ways of coping. Get the help you need with stress management treatment at Blair Wellness Group. Call 310-999-4996 to schedule an appointment.
