Stress is a part of life. You may experience stress from ”just” managing day-to-day responsibilities. You may be experiencing an unusual event in your life such as an illness, financial difficulties, family problems, a divorce, or a loss of some kind. There is no right or wrong reaction to any event in your life and your body and mind will react how they will. It is very important that you not only acknowledge the stress you are experiencing, but it is also imperative that you figure out how to manage and reduce the stress you feel. You may find that even with healthy coping skills in place it may sometimes prove to be too much, which is okay and completely normal. There are people to talk to and, if needed, medications that can help decrease your suffering. Pharmacy to My Door has Private General Practice Services available to assist you with guidance and oversight of your stress management plan. Private and discreet GP care is at your fingertips with help from professionals by clicking on our website.
“Fight or flight response” is how the body reacts to a potentially harmful situation, real or perceived. Cortisol is released from your adrenal glands which increases your heart rate, breathing, and blood pressure, and your muscles tighten. If your body perceives a constant threat, your cortisol and other stress hormone levels will remain high, increasing your risk of many health problems including:
- Anxiety/depression
- Digestive issues
- Headaches
- Heart disease
- Sleeping issues
- Weight gain and obesity
- Memory/concentration impairment
Whilst genetic predisposition and life experience can contribute to the vulnerability of experiencing stress, it is imperative that you learn how to manage and reduce stress to preserve your health. You can learn ways to cope with stress and learn how to reduce stress and tension in your life. You may also be able to implement some easy practices to help cope.
- Exercise – take a walk, stretch, swim – anything within your level of capability.
- Mindfulness – meditation, deep breaths, yoga, tapping, journal writing
- Connect – find other people to connect within something you enjoy
- Self-care – eat regularly, bathe, get sleep, groom, take a hobby
- Limit or quit substances – alcohol is a depressant and coffee can increase stress functions
Coping skills can be learned, but if you feel you need help, Private GP care is available to you by making a private GP appointment on our website: www.pharmacytomydoor.com
