Stress

Stress is a feeling of emotional or physical tension. It can come from any event or thought that makes you feel frustrated, angry, or nervous. In short bursts, stress can be positive, such as when it helps you avoid danger or meet a deadline.

When we encounter something out of the ordinary, that is not part of our norm, our nervous system triggers our ‘fight or flight’ response. Your body then releases chemicals such as Adrenaline, Noradrenaline and Cortisol into your brain and bloodstream.

Certain amounts of stress are normal for everyday life and are one of the many ways in which we deal with life’s circumstances. However, an abundance of stress will take a physical and mental toll on your body. If left untreated, it can contribute to anxiety, depression, high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease.

Symptoms

Stress has many potential symptoms as they present differently in each person. You may experience one or all of the symptoms listed.

• Anxiety
• Irritability
• Anger
• Feeling overwhelmed
• Racing thoughts
• A sense of dread
• Constant worrying

Behavioural symptoms may include:

• Nail-biting
• Inability to concentrate or make decisions
• Crying
• Bad Mood
• Alcohol/ drug abuse

Physical symptoms may include:

• Pain attacks
• Problems sleeping
• Teeth grinding and jaw clenching
• Headaches
• Weight loss
• Weight gain
• Poor immune system
• Skin problems
• Digestive issues
• Muscle tension
• Dizzy spells
• Sweating
• Fast heart rate
• Hyperventilating
• Hair loss

Stress Treatment

As unresolved stress can lead to serious health issues, it is important to move forward with treatment as soon as possible. If you feel like you are suffering from stress-related illness, contact your Ahmeys healthcare professional so we can formulate a treatment plan best suited to you.

One of the first things your Ahmeys healthcare professional will do is identify the cause of your stress by identifying your symptoms and triggers. Treatment will usually consist of a combination of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and medication.

What does talking therapy involve?

Being able to talk about how you are feeling is a good way to relieve symptoms of stress. At Ahmeys, we can make sure that you find the right mental health specialist to guide you through a course of talking therapy.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is the most common type of talking therapy and involves regular sessions with a specialist. They will guide you on how to effectively manage stress and adapt the way you respond to triggers. The idea is to develop a long-term strategy that will stop stress from consuming your life.

Medication

If the therapy alone doesn’t work then we may refer you to your doctor who may suggest a medication-based treatment alongside the therapy.

Medications for stress can include anti-depressants, beta-blockers or medicine to improve digestive issues.

Self-help

There are several ways to help your situation by trying things that can help reduce your daily stress.

• Walks
• A hobby
• Workout
• Good social circle
• Healthy dating life
• Mediation
• Yoga