Stress is a normal physiological response to our environment. From an evolutionary perspective, the “flight or fight” response is a protective mechanism to increase our chances of survival in the face of hostile surroundings.
There is, however, a fine balance that needs to be maintained, and when this doesn’t happen, we can experience unpleasant symptoms of excessive stress. If the mind starts sensing a lot of stressful events or starts sensing ordinary events as stressful, you get the same “flight or fight” response repeatedly to everyday occurrences like traffic congestion, an unruly class, an argument with your partner, a crying baby, waiting in queues, a difficult meeting, your child misbehaving, etc. The body then starts feeling the effect of being in a constant state of heightened alertness, tensed muscles and readiness. This is chronic stress and can have very unpleasant psychological and physical effects.
The common features of this state are irritability, low mood and unhappiness, worrying and feeling anxious, problems with sleep, feeling dissatisfied, indecisive and panicky, losing temper easily, and poor concentration and motivation. The results of this include problems with relationships and difficulties at work, and it can also have an adverse effect on your physical health.
Our consultants are able to help patients suffering from stress and will develop an ongoing treatment plan that might include self-help techniques, counselling or Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, or medication.
Stress disorders refer to chronic or severe responses to stress that negatively impact daily functioning. Unlike normal stress, which is temporary and situation-specific, stress disorders involve persistent symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, sleep problems, and physical tension that can interfere with work, relationships, and health.
Stress disorders can be triggered by various factors including major life changes, work-related pressure, trauma, ongoing health issues, or family conflict. Sometimes, even seemingly minor but frequent stressors, like commuting or parenting challenges, can accumulate and lead to a chronic stress response.
If left untreated, stress disorders can lead to serious health problems such as depression, anxiety disorders, cardiovascular disease, digestive issues, and a weakened immune system. Chronic stress can also strain personal relationships and reduce overall quality of life.
While not all stress can be avoided, adopting healthy coping strategies can significantly reduce the risk of developing stress disorders. Regular exercise, good sleep hygiene, time management, setting boundaries, and seeking support early can all help build resilience and prevent chronic stress.
You should consider seeking help if stress begins to interfere with your daily life, relationships, sleep, or physical health. If symptoms persist for several weeks or worsen over time, it’s important to consult a qualified mental health professional for assessment and support.
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