The mind/body connection is so evident when we encounter stress.
Good stress or bad stress, we all encounter stress differently. And sometimes unnoticed, while other times it’s noticeable to yourself and others. But it happens to all of us.
According to the National Institutes of Mental Health, there are at least three categories of stress:
- Routine stress related to the pressures of work, family and other daily responsibilities
- Stress brought about by a sudden negative change, such as losing a job, divorce, or illness
- Traumatic stress, experienced in an event like a major accident, war, assault, or a natural disaster where one may be seriously hurt or in danger of being killed.
Stress can be good and bad. There are actually terms to refer to positive stress and negative stress. They are Eustress (positive stress) and Distress (negative stress).
Eustress would include things like a job promotion, a wedding, the birth of a baby, etc.
Distress is usually what we think of. These would include things like an illness, financial woes, academic school work, etc.
Impact on health
The effects are many. And sometimes we are so used to the effects of stress that we don’t even notice them anymore. A good way to think about how it impacts our health is to ask yourself, “Am I reacting or responding to this stressor?”
Impacts could be minor or acute- such as a sore throat, canker sore, headache, upset stomach, changes in mood/anger, sleeplessness, and/or feeling depressed. Sometimes we don’t realize we are under stress until we acknowledge some of these issues. Recently I have had a sore throat and canker sore which has brought my attention to some stress in my life and prompt me to evaluate how I’m handling it.
Other more chronic impacts results in a greater likelihood of illness or sickness such as the cold/flu. Also heart attacks, diabetes, heart disease, cardiovascular health, high blood pressure, depression, etc. I know individuals who have specific health conditions where stress is one of the main culprits. It happens… and we can find ways to reduce/prevent it.
Ways to handle it
Talk to someone- a supportive friend/family member, or professional
At the end of the day, write down your achievements from the day (not what you didn’t do)
Seek spiritual enhancement and guidance
Exercise- even a small daily walk
Meditation or yoga
Soothing music
Spend time with your pets (pets can help you reduce stress)
Recognize stress in loved ones
Reach out and communicate with others. Don’t sedate your stress or ignore it. It’s important to discuss because you are valued and loved.