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Last Updated: Jan 10, 2023
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Stress: The Killer Disease!

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Dr. Rakhi AnandPsychologist • 33 Years Exp.PhD - Clinical Psychology, Diploma in Clinical and Community Psychology, MA - Clinical Psychology, BA - Psychology
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Stress in the body is a way of responding to threats. These threats need not be physical, but could be in the form of financial trouble, work pressure, relationship difficulties, major life events etc. When we are put under pressure our body releases hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol that makes the heart beat faster, tightens muscles, increases blood pressure and makes the senses alert. 

This is our body’s way of protecting us. However, the body cannot distinguish between life threatening events and the mere pressure of giving a presentation. Experiencing this fight or flight response on a recurring basis can lead to an impaired digestive system, lowered immunity, increased blood pressure and hence risk of strokes and heart attacks and can make you age faster. 

Stress cannot always be avoided but it can be dealt with effectively so as to not allow it to harm your health. For this it is important to first recognise the symptoms of stress. Stress symptoms can be categorized as cognitive, emotional, physical and behavioural symptoms. 

Cognitive Symptoms: 

  1. Memory loss 
  2. Shortened attention span 
  3. Negativity 
  4. Anxiousness Emotional 

Symptoms: 

  1. Depression 
  2. Moodiness 
  3. Anger 
  4. Feeling of isolation and loneliness 

Physical Symptoms: 

  1. Rapid heartbeat 
  2. Lowered libido 
  3. Frequent flu or stomach upsets 
  4. Nausea and dizziness 

Behavioral Symptoms: 

  1. Loss of appetite 
  2. Insomnia or sleeping excessively 
  3. Social withdrawal 
  4. Excessive smoking, drinking or use of other intoxicants 

The amount of stress each person can Tolerate before it begins to affect their body varies. While some people thrive under pressure, others are paralysed by it. Some ways you can increase your stress tolerance levels are: 

Become emotionally aware 
For some people, stress is a normal way of life and they do not realize when they’re putting their body under too much pressure. Being aware of how you feel physically and emotionally can help you realize when you are stressed out. Having the emotional awareness of what it takes to calm down your stressed nerves also helps you bounce back from a stressful situation. 

Build a strong Social Network 
People who have a close and strong network of friends and loved ones who they can share their thoughts and experiences with can tolerate more stress than those who are socially withdrawn and have fewer opportunities for social engagements. 

Get some form of regular physical activity 
Regular exercise benefits both your physical and mental health. Exercising calms your nerves and lowers the production of stress hormones in the system. It also gives you time to focus on yourself and distracts you from other worries and tensions. 

Eat the right food 
Processed foods such as refined carbs or sugary snacks can worsen stress by causing fluctuations in your blood sugar levels. Instead, eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables along with proteins and healthy fats. Good sleep at night! If you wish to discuss about any specific problem, you can consult a Psychologist.

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