Stress and its Toll on the Mind and Body

Living in today’s world full of hassles, deadlines and burdens can be much of a struggle. Hence, regardless of age, race, sex, or economic status, anyone is prone to stress putting its toll on both the mind and body. Stress is a normal physical response of the body once it has perceived a threat which may also be caused by negative emotions. It is way of protecting the body from danger. If functioning properly, this stress response can actually be helpful. For instance, in emergency situations it can give a person extra strength and speed in order to protect or defend himself. It can also help a person stay focused, energetic and alert while working under pressure. However, stress can also pose negative effects that can harm an individual’s relationship, emotions, productivity and over-all quality of life. The causes of stress may vary from person-to-person. Certain situations, events or pressures that trigger stress are known as stressors. Stressors include negative circumstances such as family conflicts, separation, loss and others. Nevertheless, stressors are not just limited to undesirable situations; it also includes positive events such as getting married, receiving a promotion and going to college, to name a few. External causes of stress include major life changes, work, relationship difficulties, financial problems, hectic schedule and family. There are also self-inflicted causes of stress such as inability to accept uncertainty, pessimism, negative self-talk, unrealistic expectations, perfectionism and lack of assertiveness. Stress signs and symptoms are categorized into cognitive, emotional, physical and behavioral. Under cognitive symptoms are memory glitches, concentration problems, poor judgment, negative disposition, anxiety and constant worrying. Additionally, the emotional symptoms of stress are sudden mood changes, irritability, agitation, loneliness, feeling of isolation and general feeling of unhappiness. Stress can also be manifested physically and it can result to aches and pains, stomach upsets (diarrhea or constipation), nausea, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, loss of sex drive and becoming prone to illnesses. Likewise, a person suffering from stress exhibits behavioral symptoms such as eating and sleeping too much or too little; self-isolation; neglecting responsibilities; substance abuse and; nervous habits like nail biting and pacing. If a person experience many of the aforementioned signs and symptoms, it may be helpful to consult a specialist or psychotherapist like Dr. Gary Zomalt. Through psychotherapy, an individual can be properly guided on stress management. As a psychotherapist, Dr. Gary Zomalt engages patients in an insightful conversation that could lead understanding and finding solutions to their problems. In this way, the possible adverse effects of too much stress on the mind and body can be prevented.