Feeling stressed can feel perfectly normal. Stress can help to motivate us to focus on our work, meet deadlines and push for better results. But sometimes, stress can make you feel overwhelmed. Stress affects everyone differently, however, there are two major types of stress: stress that’s beneficial and motivating — good stress — and stress that causes anxiety and even health problems — bad stress.
The Perks of Stress
According to experts, stress is a burst of energy that advises you on what to do. In small quantities, it can help us meet daily challenges, motivate us, boost memory and help us accomplish tasks in a more efficient manner. Researchers also believe that some stress is beneficial to our health. For instance, stress can help improve how your heart works and protect your body from infection. In one study, individuals who experienced moderate levels of stress before surgery were able to recover faster than individuals who had low or high levels.
The Drawbacks of Stress
Stress in small doses is beneficial for us, but this changes once we begin to feel overwhelmed with stress. Emotional stress that stays around for weeks or months can weaken the immune system and cause high blood pressure, fatigue, depression, anxiety and even heart disease. In particular, too much of the chemical epinephrine, which is released when the brain perceives stress, can be harmful to your heart. It can change the arteries and how their cells are able to regenerate.
The Signs of Too Much Stress
Sometimes, identifying good stress and bad stress can be difficult. However, here are some common warning signs that point towards too much stress:
- Inability to concentrate or complete tasks
- Falling sick more often with colds
- Body aches
- Headaches
- Irritability
- Trouble falling sleeping or staying awake
- Changes in appetite
- Emotional mood swings
Managing Stress
Stress is inevitable, however, you can work towards reducing your stress by improving the way your respond to it. For some simple tips on how to better manage stress, check out our article on Easy Tips to Better Manage Stress.
If you or a loved one is feeling overwhelmed by stress and would like expert medical advice, call our friendly medical concierge at +65 6679 7867 or email us at customercare@tmcg.com.sg and we will be on hand to assist you.