When stress becomes dangerous

Stress is something many of us accept as a normal part of life, but too much stress can cause serious medical problems.

A certain amount of stress can be beneficial to inspire us to accomplish tasks, and motivate us to act. Stress becomes dangerous when it interferes with our ability to live a normal life.

When we experience too much stress our bodies begin to show ‘signs of stress’. The physical signs include headaches, fatigue, insomnia, digestive changes, neck or backache, change in eating patterns, increased use of alcohol or tobacco, and a lowered libido.

Some of the emotional symptoms include anger, withdrawal, anxiety, lack of concentration, irritability and resentment.

Extended reactions to stress can alter the body’s immune system in ways that are associated with other “aging” conditions such as frailty, cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, inflammatory arthritis, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers.

Research suggests that stress impairs the brain’s ability to block certain toxins, and excessive stress can worsen existing risk factors such as hypertension and high cholesterol levels.

Stress can also hinder your ability to recover from a serious illness.

So what can you do? 

• Identify the cause
• Monitor your moods
• Make time for yourself at least two or three times a week
• Walk away when you are angry
• Review your schedule
• Set achievable standards for yourself and others

If you are feeling under stress all or most of the time, chances are your body is feeling it too.

Remember: Take time out to evaluate your situation and possible sotutions and consult your GP for supportive therapy and advice.

Source: The American Psychology Association http://www.apahelpcenter.org/articles/article.php?id=105