Saying that the last year and a half has been stressful is perhaps one of the biggest understatements we can make. Since COVID-19 entered our lives and everyday conversations, life has been weird, hard, tiring and, at the least, stressful.

Thankfully, though, we are beginning to come out on the other side of this pandemic, but the chronic stress that we have endured along the way doesn’t make recovery easy. Read on as our team at AFC Urgent Care Powdersville highlights how chronic stress impacts health below.

How Does Stress Affect My Body?

Stress triggers your body’s “fight-or-flight” response. When your body is chronically in this mode, it can cause blood pressure problems and can contribute to lots of other physical issues, such as heart disease, obesity and diabetes.

Not only does chronic stress affect your physical health, but it can potentially have an even greater impact on your mental health. Feeling chronically stressed has proven to drive up anxiety and depression levels. If you constantly feel stressed, don’t hesitate to talk to a friend or mental health professional to get the help you need to feel better.

More Physical Effects of Stress

• Low energy
• Headaches and body aches
• Frequent sickness
• Upset stomach and digestive issues
• Cognitive, behavioral and emotional problems

Are There Ways to Battle Chronic Stress?

There definitely are; however, it will take time and practice. Studies show that about 50% of all Americans admit to feeling stressed, so it’s certainly easier said than done to put those overwhelming, stressful feelings in the rearview mirror.

Having said that, though, there are things you can do to make your waking hours feel less heavy. Try one or more of the relaxation methods that we’ve listed below.

Relaxation Methods that Reduce Stress

• Try meditation or yoga. Breathing is a wonderful way to activate the body’s parasympathetic nervous system, which leads to more feelings of relaxation.
• Spend meaningful time with friends and loved ones.
• Read more and spend less time on your phone or watching television. Spending excessive time in front of a screen has proven to increase feelings of anxiety and stress, and reading can be a healthy entertainment alternative.
• Spend time outdoors. Time in nature has been linked to increased feelings of contentment.

Our team at AFC Urgent Care Powdersville cares about overall health and wellness, which includes your mental and physical health! If you have questions about how to reduce stress in your life, we’re here for you now and always.