Signs that you might be suffering from stress
Amongst the multitude of issues that there are to worry about, one should never neglect their mental health.
The past 11 months have left people mentally and emotionally distraught, after the strain that the Covid-19 pandemic has put on many of them.
Aspects like financial difficulties, losing loved ones and fearing for one’s health and safety are enough to leave anybody’s mental health unsteady.
Amongst the multitude of issues that there are to worry about, one should never neglect their mental health.
Photo: Pixabay
Neglecting something like stress could possibly lead to chronic stress which in turn could increase the chances of strokes and heart attacks.
Chronic stress is that stress which affects a person for an extended period of time and seemingly does not go away.
The main causing factors of chronic stress are:
1. Depression or anxiety
2. Financial problems
3. Family and relationship disputes
4. Anger
5. Low self-esteem
6. Death of a loved one
7. Overwhelming workload
8. Chronic illnesses or injury
If issues such as the above are not handled in a cathartic manner, it can spiral out of control and develop into chronic stress.
Photo: Pixabay
Here are a few warning signs of chronic stress:
1. Fatigue
2. Headaches
3. Unusual eating habits
4. Unable to sleep properly
5. Mood swings and extreme cases of irritability
6. Constant worrying and anxious thoughts
7. Isolation and a feeling of loneliness
While stress is a normal part of life, too much of it can be a bad thing. Knowing your limit in terms of how much stress you can handle is important.
Your outlook on life as well as support structures that you have available also determine how well you manage your stress.
Photo: Pixabay
If you suspect that you might be suffering from chronic stress, it is best to see a professional so that they can provide you with the correct treatment.
Often times people feel embarrassed about suffering from stress when it is in fact completely normal.
For this reason, many people fail to seek help and end up finding themselves in a constant battle with stress, which in turn becomes detrimental to their health.
In severe cases of stress, one should ideally consult with a professional.
However, here are a few things you can do to combat stress and help you cope in your daily life:
1. Talk about what is bothering you, with people who you feel comfortable with.
2. Engage in prayer or meditation.
3. Try stress-relieving activities such as yoga or exercise.
4. Take time out to enjoy the company of family or friends, surrounding yourself with positive people can help to uplift your mood.
5. Take a hot bath or shower.
6. Do not rely on stimulants such as nicotine or coffee.
(Source: Various)
HAVE YOUR SAY
Like the South Coast Herald’s Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram
