In today’s world, there’s plenty to stress about. Between bills and getting to work or class on time, continued COVID concerns and trying to get the kids to school, you have a lot on your plate, and it’s easy to get caught up in your own stressors. However, stress can have a variety of negative effects on your physical and mental wellbeing, so it’s important to do what you can to limit stress in your life. April is Stress Awareness Month, so Williamson Forward has gathered some information on stress and how to reduce it!
Signs of Stress
According to the American Institute of Stress, symptoms related to stress can include frequent headaches, jaw clenching or pain, grinding your teeth, frequent colds and infections, and heartburn, stomach pain, and nausea. There are longer-term risks, too. Stress can cause an individual to struggle with depression, anxiety, and insomnia, and can have negative effects on your heart health. Chronic stress can also increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Ways to Manage Stress
There are ways to manage your stress! Physical activity can help to reduce the effects of stress on your body, and can help you release stress. The American Institute of Stress suggests jogging and other aerobic exercises, yoga and tai chi, among other things, though they emphasize that one must choose a form of exercise they enjoy to reap the benefits.
For others, things like volunteering time, listening to favorite music, or spending time working on a hobby, can help cope with the stress of day to day life. It’s also important to maintain positive relationships with family, friends, and loved ones so that you and the people you love have a web of emotional support.
For more information, visitwww.stress.org