According to the World Health Organization, stress is a “state of worry or mental tension” often brought on by a difficult situation. Stress is a natural reaction to perceived threats and occurs when the body releases hormones like adrenaline and cortisol in response to an external stressor.
Stress triggers are deeply personal, and each person experiences it differently. While stress is a normal part of life that will come and go as you navigate various life circumstances (e.g., getting a new job or presenting a project), chronic stress is different. It’s characterized by prolonged and constant feelings of pressure and anxiety. Chronic stress, if left unchecked, can have a long-lasting impact on your physical and mental well-being.
This article provides an overview of chronic stress and highlights ways to manage it.
What Is Chronic Stress?
Stress can be a good thing in small doses; it’s the body’s way of handling sudden demands and challenges. Stress responses can enhance your focus, increase energy and promote quick responses.
However, frequent and long-term chronic stress can negatively impact your health. Chronic stress can contribute to feelings of anxiety and depression, issues with high blood pressure, a weakened immune system, sleep disturbances and digestive issues.
These compounding effects of chronic stress create a cycle that can be difficult to break without proper intervention and support. As such, it’s important to understand the signs of chronic stress and seek help as needed.
Identifying Chronic Stress
Common signs of chronic stress include but are not limited to the following:
- Headaches or migraines
- Irritability and frequent mood swings
- Anxiety
- Feelings of sadness or depression
- Fatigue or low energy
- Muscle pain
- Social withdrawal
- Digestive issues
- Insomnia and restlessness
- Weight fluctuations
- Increased heart rate or high blood pressure
- Difficulty concentrating or poor memory
If you believe you are suffering from chronic stress, it’s important to discuss your symptoms with a qualified medical professional.
Managing Chronic Stress
While chronic stress can be overwhelming, there are several practical strategies you can employ to manage it effectively. Here are some approaches to consider:
- Practice basic self-care. Ensure you’re getting adequate sleep, proper nutrition and regular exercise.
- Establish a routine that works for you. Establishing a consistent routine is important for managing stress. Be sure to build in regular breaks and time for activities you enjoy.
- Set clear boundaries at work. Learn to say no to additional tasks when your plate is already full.
- Stay connected with your support system. Regular check-ins with friends and family can help you better manage your stress.
Again, it’s essential to seek the aid of qualified mental health professionals when addressing concerns regarding stress.
Conclusion
You can maintain better control over your well-being by recognizing the signs of chronic stress early and taking proactive steps to manage it.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of chronic stress, consider reaching out to your health care provider or employee assistance program for guidance and support.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. For further information, please consult a medical professional. © 2025 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved.
