CHRONIC STRESS CAN LEAD TO DIABETES, HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE AND MUSCLE PAIN, HERE'S HOW TO TAKE CONTROL

Stress and trauma have profound effects on well-being. Stress doesn't just come and go like a passing breeze; instead, it settles in, causing a host of problems for mental and physical health. This persistent stress can lead to anxiety disorders and depression, making it hard to find peace of mind.

Trauma, especially if severe or repeated, can result in lasting effects like PTSD, where the mind is haunted by intrusive thoughts and flashbacks. Emotions can become like a rollercoaster, with irritability, anger, or numbness taking over.

Mental health impacts:

Anxiety and depression: Imagine stress as a cloud that hangs over your head for a long time. It's not just a temporary worry but a persistent weight that can lead to anxiety disorders and depression, says Dr Sukriti Rex, Lead Psychologist & Researcher at Evolve. She says that the mind becomes overwhelmed, unable to find relief from the constant strain.

PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder): Trauma, especially severe or repeated trauma, can have lasting effects, says Rex. It's like a wound that never quite heals. PTSD brings with it intrusive thoughts, flashbacks to the trauma, avoidance of anything that reminds one of the trauma, and a constant state of alertness, always on guard for danger.

Emotional dysregulation: Prolonged stress or trauma can make emotions feel like a rollercoaster without brakes. From irritability to anger outbursts or even emotional numbness, it becomes challenging to navigate daily life when emotions are out of control.

Negative self-perception: Rex says the constant weight of stress and trauma can chip away at self-esteem. It's like a constant whisper telling you that you're not good enough. Over time, this negative self-perception can lead to low self-confidence, body image issues, and a pessimistic view of the world.

Physical health effects:

Weakened immune system: The body is a remarkable system, but even it has its limits. Chronic stress can wear down the immune system, leaving you vulnerable to illnesses. This happens partly because stress triggers the release of cortisol, a hormone that, in excess, can harm the immune response.

Increased risk of chronic diseases: The body wasn't designed to withstand constant stress. Over time, it takes a toll. Chronic stress is linked to a higher risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and a host of other chronic health problems.

Sleep problems: Picture your brain as a busy city that never sleeps. That's what it feels like when stress disrupts sleep patterns. Whether it's insomnia or nightmares, the mind is on high alert, unable to find the peace needed for restorative sleep.

Pain and fatigue: Chronic stress can manifest in physical ways, too, says Rex. It's not uncommon to experience headaches, muscle pain, and an overall sense of fatigue when stress becomes a constant companion.

It's essential to understand that each person reacts differently to stress and trauma. Factors such as the type of stress, how long it lasts, individual coping mechanisms, and the support system in place etc play a role in how you're affected.

If you find yourself struggling with prolonged stress or trauma, seek professional help. Mental health professionals are equipped to provide support and guidance, helping you navigate these challenging times and work towards healing. Remember, it's okay to seek help, and you don't have to go through this alone.

2024-04-08T06:31:48Z dg43tfdfdgfd