Stress and Mental Health

We all experience stress at one time or another. How we perceive and react to a stressful event determines how it impacts our health.

Some people who are experiencing stress may feel tense or anxious. Headaches and stomach complaints are also common symptoms. Individuals with high levels of prolonged stress may have higher blood cholesterol and experience increases in blood pressure.

Stress-filled lifestyles also make it hard to make healthy choices. Being aware of the causes of your stress and learning how to cope will help make the healthy choices easier.

Mental health

It's estimated that 1 in 5 Ontarians will be affected by a mental illness at some time in their lives. Mental illness knows no boundaries – it crosses every gender, social and economic, cultural, and education sector. Depression and anxiety may be the result of chronic stress. As many Canadians suffer from major depression as from other leading chronic conditions, including heart disease.

What makes a difference?

Since we're usually unable to prevent, reduce or even predict all of our stressors, management response to stress is a crucial skill. Life today can be daunting. Learning to identify the sources of our stress, and adopting a positive attitude and healthy stress-relieving techniques may be the most useful skills to learn in our lifetimes.

Ideas

To decrease stress, The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health recommends:

  • Use relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing.
  • Go for a walk - physical activity is one of the most effective stress remedies around!
  • Do essential tasks and prioritize the others. Consider those who may be affected by your decisions, such as family and friends.
  • Watch your diet - Alcohol, caffeine, sugar, fats and tobacco all put a strain on your body's ability to cope with stress.
  • Get enough rest and sleep.
  • Talk with others - Talk with friends, professional counsellors, support groups or relatives about what is bothering you.
  • Have some fun!
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