Causes of modern day stress
Modern day stresses are more likely to be psychological in origin and prolonged in nature (eg: work-related stress, financial worries, inter-personal relationships, chronic illnesses). But they can still set off the body’s alarm mechanism and the associated hormone surge. Over-exposure to those stress hormones can, in turn, have a range of negative impacts on the body’s systems - brain, cardiovascular, immune, digestive, musculoskeletal and so on.
People deal with stress in different ways and the capacity to deal with stress changes throughout life. Those who have developed effective strategies to deal with day-to-day stressors are less likely to develop physical and psychological symptoms.
Signs, symptoms and diagnosis
Stress that is not controlled and continues for a long period of time can cause a number of psychological and physical symptoms. Psychological symptoms of stress can include:
- Sleep disturbances
- Difficulty concentrating
- Lack of confidence
- Difficulty relaxing
- Difficulty with decision making
Physical symptoms of stress can include:
- Muscle tension and pain
- Low energy
- Nervous twitches or muscle spasms
- Changes in appetite
- Decreased sexual function
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.
Long term, uncontrolled stress is associated with the development of a number of medical conditions. Primarily these occur as the result of biochemical imbalances that can weaken the immune system and over-stimulate the part of the nervous system that regulates heart rate, blood pressure and digestion. Medical conditions that can occur as a result of long term stress include:
- Heart palpitations
- Gastrointestinal problems (eg: indigestion, heartburn, irritable bowel syndrome)
- Worsening skin conditions (eg: dermatitis / eczema)
- High blood pressure
- Recurrent colds and 'flu.
If it is suspected that stress is the cause for psychological or physical illness, a doctor should be consulted. The doctor will rule out any physical or mental illness that may be the cause of the symptoms. The doctor will discuss your medical history and circumstances, including identification of any stressors that may be present in your life. The doctor will try to ascertain the level of stress you are experiencing and your ability to deal with the stress.
Stress management and reliefDeveloping strategies to recognise and deal with stress can prevent or reduce its negative effects. There are many approaches to managing, relieving or coping with stress. These include exercise, dietary changes, relaxation, stress management courses, counselling and medications.
Discussing concerns with an impartial person may assist with recognising stressors and deciding upon strategies to deal with them. This does not necessarily need to be a professional therapist but may be a trusted family member, friend or colleague. Often the process of discussing a concern is enough to alleviate the stress it is causing. Asking for help should not be seen as a sign of weakness. Knowing when to ask for help may be one of the changes necessary to deal with stress more appropriately.
Stress management courses enable individuals to develop strategies to cope with life and stress more effectively. Most courses teach skills that enable the individual to recognise current stressors and techniques to effectively deal with these. Skills such as time management, goal setting, assertive communication, problem solving, managing change and relaxation techniques may be taught.
Relaxation is an effective way to help reduce muscle tension associated with stress. There are many different relaxation techniques eg: yoga, tai chi, meditation and massage. Some people find that simply taking “time out” during the day or after a stressful situation is sufficient to reduce stress levels. There are more formalised relaxation techniques available eg: Jacobson’s Progressive Relaxation Technique, The Mitchell Method and hypnosis. Consult a doctor or community resource group (eg: Citizen’s Advice Bureau) to find out what services are available. A local library may also be able to recommend suitable books on this topic.
In severe cases of stress, medication may be prescribed to treat some of the symptoms caused by stress. Medication should only be considered as a short-term treatment and should be strictly monitored by the prescribing doctor.
Further information and support
For further information and support about dealing with stress consult your GP or practice nurse, or contact the following agencies:Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand
P O Box 10051 Dominion Rd
National Office Website: www.mentalhealth.org.nz
Phone: (09) 623 4810 Nationwide Free Phone: 0800 543 354
ReferencesMental Health Foundation (2013). Stress and how to handle it (Pamphlet). Auckland: Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand. https://www.mentalhealth.org.nz/assets/ResourceFinder/Stress-and-How-to-Handle-it.pdf
Mayo Clinic (2017). Stress management (Web Page). Rochester, NY: Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/basics/stress-basics/hlv-20049495 [Accessed: 28/06/17]
Stoppler, M., C. (2016). MedicineNet.com: Stress (Web Page). New York, NY: WebMD LLC. http://www.medicinenet.com/stress/article.htm [Accessed: 26/07/17]