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Stress and its impact on health
Explore the effects of stress on health, including chronic stress, eustress, distress, and their impact on overall wellbeing.
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Sanjeev K Yadav
Photo by Drazen Zigic/Pexels
Stress is an inevitable part of life, affecting everyone in different ways. While some stress can be beneficial, chronic stress can have serious implications for our health and wellbeing. In this article, we will explore the different types of stress, their causes, and their impact on our health.
Eustress vs. Distress
Eustress and distress are two sides of the stress coin. Eustress is the positive form of stress that can motivate you and help you focus on tasks. It is often associated with feelings of excitement and fulfillment. Examples of eustress include starting a new job, preparing for a wedding, or engaging in a challenging physical activity.
Distress, on the other hand, is the negative form of stress that can lead to anxiety, decreased performance, and health problems. It occurs when the demands placed upon you exceed your ability to cope effectively. Examples of distress include financial difficulties, relationship conflicts, and overwhelming work pressures.
Chronic Stress
Chronic stress is a prolonged and constant feeling of stress that can negatively affect your health if it goes untreated. Unlike acute stress, which is short-lived and often beneficial, chronic stress persists over a long period and can lead to significant health problems. It occurs when the body experiences stressors with such frequency or intensity that the autonomic nervous system does not have an adequate chance to activate the relaxation response on a regular basis.
Few Symptoms of Chronic Stress:
- Aches and pains
- Decreased energy
- Difficulty sleeping
- Disorganized thinking
- Fatigue
- Frequent illnesses and infections
- Gastrointestinal complaints
- Headaches
- Irritability
- Muscle tension
- Nervousness and anxiety
Causes of Chronic Stress
Chronic stress can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Work-related pressures: High demands, long hours, and job insecurity.
- Financial problems: Debt, lack of savings, and economic instability.
- Personal relationships: Marital issues, family conflicts, and social isolation.
- Health concerns: Chronic illnesses, disabilities, and mental health disorders.
- Environmental factors: Noise, pollution, and unsafe living conditions.
Impact of Chronic Stress on Health and Wellbeing
Chronic stress can have a profound impact on both physical and mental health. Here are some of the ways it can affect your wellbeing:
Physical Health:
- Cardiovascular problems: Increased risk of hypertension [1], heart attacks, and strokes [2].
- Immune system suppression: Higher susceptibility to infections and illnesses [3].
- Digestive issues: Stomach ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and other gastrointestinal problems [4].
- Musculoskeletal problems: Muscle tension, back pain, and joint issues [5].
- Endocrine System Disruption: Chronic stress can disrupt the endocrine system, leading to hormonal imbalances and conditions such as diabetes [13] and thyroid disorders [14].
- Weight Gain or Loss: Stress can affect eating habits, leading to weight gain or loss [16]. It can also contribute to conditions like obesity [15] and eating disorders.
- Respiratory Issues: Stress can exacerbate conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) [17], leading to difficulty breathing and increased respiratory infections [18].
- Reproductive Problems: Chronic stress can affect reproductive health, leading to issues such as irregular menstrual cycles [20], reduced fertility [19], and complications during pregnancy.
Mental Health:
- Anxiety and depression: Chronic stress is a significant risk factor for developing anxiety disorders and depression [6].
- Cognitive impairment: Difficulty concentrating [7], memory problems [8], and decreased decision-making abilities [9].
- Sleep disturbances: Insomnia, restless sleep, and other sleep disorders [10].
Overall Wellbeing:
- Decreased quality of life: Chronic stress can lead to a reduced ability to enjoy life and engage in activities you once found pleasurable [11].
- Relationship problems: Increased irritability and mood swings can strain personal [12] and professional relationships.
- Burnout: Prolonged exposure to stress can lead to burnout, characterized by emotional exhaustion, detachment, and a sense of ineffectiveness.
Understanding the different types of stress and their impact on health is crucial for managing stress effectively. While eustress can be a motivating force, chronic stress and distress can have serious implications for your health and wellbeing. Identifying the causes of chronic stress and taking steps to manage it can help improve your overall quality of life.
About the Author
Sanjeev K Yadav, M.A. (Yoga), M.A. (Psychology), Diploma (Nutrition)
Mr. Sanjeev is a yoga professional and consultant specializing in applied yoga, human excellence, and psychology. With over nine years of experience as a health and life coach, yoga & well-being trainer, and psycho-yogic counselor, he brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his practice. He is currently completing his Ph.D. dissertation in yoga.
