There’s a reason why we always hear the phrase “stress can kill you.”
Research* has shown that stress can have severe negative impacts on both our physical and mental health.
Stress can cause insomnia, headaches, muscle tension, high blood pressure, and a weakened immune system.
Moreover, chronic stress can lead to mental illness such as anxiety and depression, making it a serious matter for our overall well-being.
In this post, we will explore the link between stress and mental health, how stress affects our mental health, and how we can manage both for optimal living.
- What is Stress, Actually?
Stress is a natural response of our body to emotionally or physically challenging situations.
When we encounter something that our brain senses as a threat, it triggers a response called the fight or flight response.
The fight or flight response helps us respond to the danger by releasing cortisol, the stress hormone.
Usually, when we encounter stressful situations occasionally, it’s not a problem. Our bodies can quickly recover.
However, when stress becomes chronic, such as dealing with a lifelong illness, it can have lasting effects on our mental health.
- How Stress Affects our Mental Health
Chronic stress can lead to various mental health problems, such as anxiety and depression.
Studies* have shown that stress can cause neural pathways in the brain to change, leading to patterns of overthinking and negative thinking.
Moreover, the long-term effects of cortisol on the brain can cause damage to the hippocampus and impair the memory.
Chronic stress can also make us more reactive, increase our emotional responses, and lower our threshold for stress in the future.
This vicious cycle can result in chronic anxiety, depression, and other related mental health problems.
- How to Manage Stress and Mental Health for Optimal Living
One of the best ways to manage stress and mental health is to practice mindfulness activities such as meditation, yoga, and breathing exercises.
Mindfulness exercises help us focus on the present moment and calm our minds, reducing cortisol levels and promoting relaxation.
Moreover, regular exercise, a balanced diet, and getting enough sleep are proven ways to manage stress and improve mental health.
You could also try cognitive-behavioural therapy. It helps you change negative thought patterns, build adaptive coping strategies, and improve your mental health in the long run.
- Recognise the Signs and Seek Help
Lastly, it’s essential to recognise the signs of stress and mental health problems and seek help when necessary.
Listen to your body and mind and seek help when you’re feeling overwhelmed or anxious.
Talk to your friends and family, or seek the help of a mental health professional.
They are trained to help you find ways to manage stress and improve your mental health and well-being.
Stress and mental health are inextricably linked, and managing them both is essential for maintaining optimal health.
Practicing mindfulness, exercise, cognitive-behavioural therapy, and seeking help when necessary are crucial steps in managing both stress and mental health.
In this fast-paced world, it’s common to feel anxious, overwhelmed, and stressed out.
But with a little self-care and small lifestyle adjustments, it’s possible to lead a happier, healthier life.
Remember that a little self-care goes a long way!
*The article below from Every Mind Matters talks in more details about the relationship between stress and mental health:
https://www.nhs.uk/every-mind-matters/mental-health-issues/stress
Share with us below hope you cope with stress.