Everyone has stress. It is part of life. You can feel stress in your body when you have too much to do or when you haven’t slept well.
Listed below some of the effects of Stress on our body:
Brain and Nerves: Stress causes headaches, lack of energy, sadness, nervousness, anger, irritability, lack of concentration, memory problems, mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, substance abuse.
Heart: Stress causes rapid heartbeat, or palpitations, increases blood pressure, increase the risk of heart attack or high cholesterol.
Stomach: Stress causes nausea, stomach ache, heartburn, weight gain or weight loss
Pancreas: Increases risk of diabetes
Intestines: Causes constipation, digestive problems or diarrhea
Reproductive organs: For females, irregular or painful periods, reduced sexual desire. For men, impotence, low sperm count or reduced sexual desire.
It can also cause skin problems, weakens the immune system.
How can you reduce or control the stress?
- Doing activities that you enjoy
- Finding a space at home to relax
- Allocating enjoyable time with you family, kids and your furry friends
- Sharing our thoughts and feelings with your loved ones
- Take one thing at a time
When to get help?
Anytime. You are not alone. Professional help is available. Talk to your doctor, seek help and start the conversation about mental health and your well-being.
Beyond Blue (1300 224 636), and Life Line (13 11 14) have 24-hour crisis centres. You can call them and seek help. If you need immediate assistance dial 000.
