Submitted by Advance Health & Wellness Intern, Jocelyne
National Stress Awareness Day is an annual occurrence dedicated to raising consciousness about stress management. Celebrated on the first Wednesday of November, this national day allows the opportunity to inform the public of all ages and genders about the importance of being able to manage as well as reduce stress levels.
What Is Stress?
Stress is a feeling that we have all experienced at one point in our lives. It is the pressure or tension that one feels physically and/or emotionally. When stress is not managed, it can accumulate, and as a result impact our health and well-being in a damaging way. If stress is prolonged, it can be threatening to our health by making us more prone to heart diseases, anxiety, a weak immune system and much more. The significance of maintaining a good quality of mental health can determine how each individual carries on their daily activities.
Stress Risk Factors
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of stress is a key factor to avoid harmful risks. These include knowing when to take a break to relax from distressing situations, whether it is in the workplace or personal environments to avoid burnout too. Not all stress is bad, however when we experience negative symptoms, it is important to recognize the signs and implement a change in our lives.
These signs include, but are not limited to:
- Exhaustion
- Hypertension
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Tense muscles
- Irritability
- Chest pains
Managing Stress
Learning how to deal with our stress levels can allow positive outcomes that will lead to a better lifestyle and performance. Since not all stress can be controlled or avoided, it is crucial to find ways to manage it. Ways to deal with stress include activities involving a sense of relaxation, carrying out a healthy diet, exercising, and accepting that there will be situations in which we will not be able to control. Talking and reaching out to others who we trust can also benefit in releasing stress.
Advance recognizes the importance of dealing with stress to be able to carry on with a healthy way of life and incorporates mental health into its preventative health classes. Learn more here.
