Stress is the natural response of our body to several things – – challenging situations, or feelings of being overwhelmed, or cases where we perceive that there is no control over the outcome.
It affects both our physical and mental health. Stress may result from problems related to personal life, for example, family matters, job stress, or health issues, and it may also result from what happens in a community or workplace such as oppression or harassment.
Stress is often conceived in bad terms, while, in fact, it can be helpful to us at times. The level and extent of the amount of stress may help sharpen a person’s focus, enhance productivity, and motivate towards the goals. Each person responds to stress in his or her own distinct manner; what would be distressing to you may have no impact on another person.
However, too much stress sometimes connects with extreme problems, more so when it starts to affect our bodies as well as our mental health. If you feel life and challenges are becoming too overwhelming for your own well-being, then it’s time to call Arbor Wellness in Las Vegas, Nevada at 702-830-9588. Remember that seeking expert help is not a sign of weakness.
Stress, depression, and distress
Chronic stress or long-term stress has a very devastating effect on our well-being and is usually stated to be the cause of depression. Distress, however, is a more intense level of stress experienced over time that contributes to a deep sense of anxiety, fear, and worry.
What causes stress?
Everyone reacts to stress in different ways. While something may stress you out, it may not bother another person at all. In the U.S., work-related stress is the most common type.
Other common causes of stress in life and work are:
- Death or loss of a family member
- Infertility
- Relationship breakups, including divorce and separation
- Job loss and financial difficulties
- Relocating to a new place or changing residence
- A family member’s personal health problems or disease
- Experiencing traumatic events
- Working extended hours in hazardous conditions
- Dissatisfaction with the job stemming from inadequate pay or an overwhelming workload
- Experiencing bias or harassment from colleagues
Is stress a mental health issue?
No, it isn’t; however, it is closely linked to our mental well-being. The longer the period of stress, the higher the chances of developing some sort of mental health disorder such as anxiety and PTSD, among others. Also, a person can find themselves reliant on alcohol or drugs as a means of dealing with their stress.
Types of stress
Acute stress is a type of stress that occurs suddenly and disappears quickly. It frequently occurs when a person faces unexpected life challenges such as a health crisis, the sudden death of a loved one, an accident, or being caught up in a natural disaster. Everyone, at some point, experiences acute stress.
Episodic acute stress is the situation in which a person suffers from frequent episodes of acute stress. Such a condition renders the person perpetually stressed; therefore, there is always the feeling of distress. Without being able to relax or calm down, and this sums up to both mental and physical exhaustion. It is very common among persons facing stressful jobs or occupations.
Chronic stress is defined as ongoing or long-term stress that causes a person to feel overwhelmed and exhausted. The sense of being stressed and overburdened appears unending and unavoidable. Chronic stress can be damaging to one’s entire health.
This type can cause a variety of serious health problems, including psoriasis, arthritis, high blood pressure, heart palpitations, weight gain or loss, ulcers, and reproductive infections, to mention a few. If left untreated, chronic stress can increase the chance of developing mental health problems.
If you believe that stress is adversely affecting your daily life (this may manifest in various ways), or if you struggle to relax, despite your efforts, you should consider contacting your mental health care provider. Arbor Wellness, located in Las Vegas, Nevada, is available to assist you in improving your emotional well-being by addressing them with compassion and understanding.
Sources:
https://www.verywellmind.com/stress-and-health-3145086
https://www.webmd.com/balance/causes-of-stress
https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/stress/causes-of-stress/https://www.webmd.com/balance/stress-management/stress-symptoms-effects_of-stress-on-the-body
https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/stress
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/11874-stress
