The Effects of Stress

The medical and psychological communities are still debating some of the effects of stress, but there are also many that they agree on. In many people, stress will lead to a reduced digestive rate, raised blood pressure, a rapid heartbeat and a rise in blood sugar level.

Also important are the psychological effects, which are often less noticeable. Irritability is often a side affect of stress, especially if stress has been suffered from for a long period of time. Impatience and a quick temper can often indicate that someone is suffering from stress. Many who suffer from stress also find it difficult to concentrate, and will find that they can’t even make simple decisions, afraid of the future, and what their decision may lead to.

Both feeling unable to cope, and the other symptoms of stress, are not unrelated. ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone) is released by the hypothalamus and the pituitary gland during stressful periods. This in turn causes cortisol to be released from the adrenal gland. Everyone has natural levels of cortisol which fluctuate throughout the day, but the excess produced during stressful times can cause the “fight or flight” response that all animals, including humans, have to help combat certain situations.

The result can cause tension in the neck and shoulder muscles, stomach and bowel problems, along with a variety of other health issues. Some research has shown that stressful periods that last for a long time can lead to the immune system being compromised. That in turn results in more colds, viruses and other health problems, which themselves can cause further stress.

Stress can result in loss of concentration, difficulty in looking at situations objectively and difficulty in remembering information. When you focus on the problem, rather than on the steps that will solve the problem, it becomes difficult to deal with challenges. Many will then suffer from irritability, unreasonable anger, and various other emotional feelings that can often lead to more long term problems.

Apathy, depression and various other psychological problems can result from long term stress. However, stress does not have to lead to this end.

It is important to break the cycle this is often present during stress. When “I must” and “I can’t” begin to interact, stress is the result. It is important to look objectively at both, and realise that the “I must” is often not actually a ‘must’, but rather a ‘want’. Dealing with the “I can’t” then becomes a little easier.

By looking at a situation realistically, and focusing your attention on those factors that you can control, you can reduce, or eliminate stress from your life. Also, by dealing with problems as they arise, rather than letting several small things pile up, you’ll find that it is unlikely that stress will trouble you again.

         

Introduction to Stress

Managing Stress and Your Health
What Causes Stress
Stress - How NOT To Deal with Stress
Causes of Stress at Work

How to Deal with Stress

Tackling Stress in the Modern World
Stress and Alcohol
Stress and Diet
Stress Curing Techniques – How to Deal with Stress
Stress and Exercise – How to Relieve Stress with Exercise
Conquering Stress – How to Conquer Stress
Curing Stress at Work – How to Cure Stress at Work
Curing Stress – Pruning the Roots

Stress Guide and Info

Stress and Money Issues
Stress from Parents, Teenage Dilemmas
Stress and Pets
Manage Stress Living Together with Your Partner
Managing Stress around the Holidays
How to Deal with Parenting Stress