Stress Overload?

What comes to mind when you think of money, work and the economy?

A recent study by the American Psychological Association reveals chronic stress is an epidemic in the workplace – with women, Gen Y in particular, leading the pack.

Furthermore, one in four women acknowledges that she isn’t doing enough to manage her stress.

Stress comes in two forms, acute and chronic.

Acute stress is your body’s normal response to a scare, commonly known as the “flight-or-fight” reaction. When the threat abates, so does the stress.

Chronic stress occurs when the body is constantly reacting to stress.

When you’re always on edge, the fight-or-flight reaction stays on, releasing hormones into your body. This causes an imbalance, and prevents your body from returning to its baseline state.

“Chronic stress can result in hypertension, which, if not treated, increases the risk for heart disease and stroke,” says Mercy Hospital’s Director of the Prevention and Research Center Dr. Kathy Helzlsouer.

Other signs you’ve let stress levels go too far include irregular menstrual cycles, constipation and insomnia.

A recent study by Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center also indicates that stress biochemically feeds the growth of cancerous cells.

Although it’s impossible to escape stress altogether, recognizing when your stress has escalated and learning to manage it is key.

Helzlsouer teaches her patients to take 10 slow, deep breaths when they start feeling stressed.

She recommends focusing on counting the breaths to block out the stressful event or thoughts.

“Some stress is good stress, like planning a wedding,” says Helzlsouer. We just have to know when to put the brakes on.

Bonus PINK Link: The Over-Scheduled Woman

How do you manage your stress?

By Sarah Grace Alexander

“If your teeth are clenched and your fists are clenched, your lifespan is probably clenched.” Adabella Radici