Life is full of stressful situations. You may feel stress over meeting a deadline, managing finances, or even something as simple as getting the kids out the door in the mornings (ok, maybe NOT so simple).
According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, “Seven out of ten adults in the United States say they experience stress or anxiety daily, and most say it interferes at least moderately with their lives.”
Stress has become such a part of daily life that many people don’t realize it’s a problem until symptoms become unbearable, and sometimes, irreversible.
How Does the Body Respond to Stress?
When faced with danger, a chemical reaction occurs in your body which allows you to act quickly. This reaction, also known as the “fight-or-flight” or “stress response”, is your body’s way of keeping you safe from harm. Unfortunately—the body can’t always discern between a legitimate threat and the pressure of daily life.
Any stressful situation—from narrowly avoiding a head-on collision to being stuck in a traffic jam—can trigger this response causing the heart rate to increase, blood pressure to rise, and muscles to tighten.
Symptoms of Stress and Anxiety
Stress can wreak havoc on your mind and body. In small doses, the stress response can improve alertness and sharpen senses; however, chronic stress can lead to serious problems such as cardiovascular disease, gastrointestinal problems, and autoimmune disease. Be sure to talk to your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms on an ongoing basis.
Mental Symptoms
- Moodiness
- Distraction
- Forgetfulness
- Low self-esteem
- Depression
Physical Symptoms
- Aches, pains, and tension
- Insomnia
- Headaches
- Chest pain
- Nervousness
- Digestive problems
- Low energy levels
- Frequent colds or infections