With the semester nearing an end, we can feel the pressures of grades, upcoming tests and assignments, and even graduations; formulating stress for most if not all of us. Therefore, it is important to acknowledge the effects and healthy ways to cope with stress. Bringing awareness is crucial to one's well-being since stress is a common thing for everyone.
What is Stress?
Stress is the human body's response to physical or emotional pressure. Different situations trigger stress, such as speeches, tests, family events, basically, any life experience sets off this fight-or-flight response. It could have a negative or positive impact.
Effects of Stress
Stress affects us mentally, physically, and emotionally. It affects everyone differently. Some may get consumed by it, others may not. The physical effects include: headaches, nausea, dizziness, tiredness, cardiovascular diseases, and digestive problems. Emotionally you may feel anxious, overwhelmed, frustrated, and sad. In the long term, you may suffer from chronic stress which will affect your mental wellbeing. People with chronic stress suffer from depression, anxiety, and other mental problems.
Stress Management
Although stress is unavoidable, there are ways to cope with it. Daily activities can help manage it from becoming worse, such as exercise, breathing tactics, and yoga. Other ways to prevent it are eating healthy, good sleeping habits, and having positive people in your life. If you cannot deal with your stress on your own reaching out to a therapist could help.
Works Cited
“Stress.” Mental Health Foundation, Mental Health Foundation, 11 Nov. 2021, https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/a-to-z/s/stress#:~:text=Stress%20is%20the%20feeling%20of,with%20mental%20or%20emotional%20pressure.
“Stress: Signs, Symptoms, Management & Prevention.” Cleveland Clinic,