Stress triggers changes in your body.
The body reacts to stress by releasing adrenaline, which causes breathing and heart rate to change. Stress can cause depression, anxiousness, tension, body aches, weight gain and sleep loss. Stress over long periods of time can even trigger a heart attack! Significant problems that come with stress, such as a heart attack come when stress is constant (chronic), and your body remains in high gear!
Not all stress is bad. For example, eagerly waiting to see if your team will win a football game might be stressful but not harmful. The key is to manage unhealthy stress that may lead to health issues. Whether you have been diagnosed with heart disease or not, controlling stress levels is an essential part of overall health.
Here are a few tips to help you manage stress levels:
Take Deep Breathes
Time for relaxation is vital for your heart and brain. Yoga, meditation, tai chi or daily walks can all help you detach from stress to find peace.
Give Up Your Vices
Overworking, alcohol, smoking, excessive caffeine or junk food can all exacerbate feelings of stress and poor health. Fueling your body with proper nutrients can help physically feel and even sleep better.
Burn Some Steam
Exercise can help you physically release tension. It is also a great way to mentally detach from stressful situations while doing something positive for yourself. Physically active adults have a lower risk of depression and function better mentally.
Consider Stress Management
If daily life feels too challenging, it may be worth enrolling in a program to help manage these feelings. There are therapy groups that can help you thrive rather than feel overwhelmed.
Home care may be what your family needs to lighten the load and decrease overall stress in the household. Whether you are a family caregiver or need personal assistance, home care can be the boost that you need to thrive.
