Stress is your body's way of responding to any kind of demand and can be caused by both good and bad experiences. In Australia, stress is becoming increasingly common due to the changes in our lifestyles and work-life balance, lack of sleep, and even the housing crisis. So, let's talk about stress.
Research suggests that:
The number of stressed Aussies has jumped by about a third – now 4.9 million, in the last decade
Hospital admissions for stress have risen
Stress is one of the most common causes of illness and one of the main causes of sick days taken in Australia
Costs the economy billions each year
Lack of sleep was a key contributor to stress, followed by work pressures
People are three times more likely to drink alcohol to help deal with stress than would go to a GP
Whether we read about it, hear about it or are affected by it, stress is an issue we can all relate to and one that we are surrounded by as a nation.
Recognising stress
Recognising and addressing symptoms of stress can prevent it from affecting you further or leading to illness. Examples of some of the symptoms include:
Cognitive Symptoms: poor concentration or judgement, memory problems, anxiety, negativity, worrying constantly,
Emotional Symptoms: irritability, being overwhelmed, loneliness, isolation, moodiness, agitation, depression
Physical Symptoms: aches and pains, dizziness, frequent colds, nausea, chest pains
Behavioural Symptoms: increased or decreased appetite or sleep, nervous habits, isolation, using alcohol or smoking to relax,
Dealing with stress
The most important thing to do is try and establish the cause or the trigger point for your stress. Like most things, there is no quick-fix cure for stress, and no single method will work for everyone. However here are some simple steps that you can try:
Physical activity
Take control of the cause or trigger
Communicate with people and talk – whether that’s with friends and family, colleagues
Help other people
Ensure you have some “Me time” including having a massage, acupuncture, and time with friends
Address your work-life balance and make changes where possible
Set yourself some goals and challenges e.g. new form of exercise, starting a new hobby
Avoid unhealthy habits that mean you avoid facing the problem
Help other people
Be positive and accept the things you cannot change
Above and beyond these simple steps, help and advice can be found via a number of sources including your GP, charities, organisations and your workplace.
This blog "Let's talk about stress" was written by Whole Health Osteopath Dr. Jess. Whole Health Osteopathy was established in 2017 and is located at 855 Plenty Road, South Morang, 3752.