Did You Know These Facts About Stress?

Stress is a natural reaction that everyone experiences at some point in their lives when faced with difficult situations or circumstances. Yet, despite how common stress is in our day-to-day lives, there is still much we may not know about this feeling.

What Is Stress?

Stress is a feeling of emotional or physical tension that results from unwanted or difficult demands, constraints, or obligations. It is the body’s way of responding to challenges and can arise due to a variety of factors, such as work, relationships, money, and health.

Everyone experiences stress to some degree. It is simply our natural response to challenges and threats and is the result of a variety of factors, both internal and external. However, while a small amount of stress can be helpful, such as when it motivates you to meet a deadline, too much stress can be harmful.

Chronic stress can lead to a variety of physical and mental health problems, such as:

• Physical problems: Headaches, muscle tension, stomach problems, sleep problems, high blood pressure, and heart disease.
• Mental problems: Anxiety, depression, and difficulty concentrating.

As some stress can be unavoidable, it is important to know how to properly manage and cope with this emotion. Fortunately, there are many helpful skills and tools we can use to manage our stress and lead healthier, calmer lives.

How Do People Cope With Stress?

How we cope with stress can make a big difference in our overall health and well-being. While some coping mechanisms are healthy and helpful, others can actually be harmful in the long term. Some of the unhealthy ways in which people may attempt to manage their stress include:

• Substance abuse: Alcohol, drugs, and tobacco are often used to self-medicate stress and anxiety. However, this abuse can lead to addiction, health problems, and even worse stress over time.
• Poor eating habits: Overeating can provide temporary comfort, but it can also lead to weight gain and other health problems. Undereating can also be harmful, as it can deprive your body of essential nutrients.
• Procrastination: Putting things off until the last minute may allow you to avoid an unwanted task at the moment, but can ultimately add to stress and make it harder to manage.
• Social isolation: While stress can make it difficult to be around other people, withdrawing from friends and family can make you feel even more alone and stressed.
• Negative self-talk: Stress can cause us to take out our frustrations on ourselves with negative self-talk. However, constantly criticizing yourself can lower your self-esteem and make it harder to cope with stress.

With the many negative ways in which we may handle our stress, there are several healthier and more productive alternatives. Some of the effective ways in which we can manage our stress include:

• Regular exercise: Physical activity, whether this be biking, walking, or going to the gym, can help reduce stress hormones and improve your mood.
• Relaxation techniques: Calming and mindful activities like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can help calm your mind and body.
• Stress toys: There are several stress relief games available to help you manage this emotion, including stress balls, adult stress relief coloring pages, puzzles, and more.
• Healthy eating: Maintaining a balanced diet and regular meals can help improve your energy levels and mood.
• Getting enough sleep: When you are well-rested, you are able to cope with stress and regulate your emotions more easily.
• Talking to someone you trust: Talking about your stress with a trusted loved one can help you feel better and get support during a difficult time.
• Seeking professional help: If you are struggling to cope with stress on your own, a therapist can teach you coping skills and help you develop healthier ways of managing your stress.

How you cope with your stress can make a drastic difference in your quality of life and ability to manage your day-to-day life. It can be difficult to build the right habits, but with the right support, a healthier and happier life is possible.