How Can Stress Impact Mental Wellbeing?

• September 14, 2023
• Anxiety and Stress
• Nick Sparrow
• 13 Comments

Stress has become an everyday term in our fast-paced world, but did you know that stress goes beyond mere feelings of being overwhelmed?

Stress can push us to achieve amazing things like meeting last-minute deadlines. However, when stress becomes regular, it can profoundly impact our mental health.

So, let’s answer, “How does stress impact mental wellbeing,” and explore why managing stress benefits our mental health!

What is Stress?

Stress is our body’s response to everyday life’s physical and mental demands.

It can arise from various situations, both positive and negative. For instance, stress may spur us to meet close deadlines or endure challenging experiences.

We might also observe changes within ourselves, like a faster heartbeat and heightened adrenaline levels.

The Physical and Psychological Effects of Stress

When we face stress, our body initiates a “fight or flight” response, unleashing hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones play a role in how stress affects us.

Stress Impact on Physical Wellbeing

Stress can influence our health. If not correctly addressed, chronic stress may contribute to:

• Headaches
• Heart disease
• Weakened immune system

Now, let’s consider, “How does stress impact mental well-being?”

Stress Impact on Mental Health

Over time, stress can really take a toll on our mental health.

If we don’t handle it, chronic stress can contribute to developing mental health concerns like anxiety and depression.

That’s why it’s crucial to prioritize our mental well-being and learn healthy ways to cope with stress.

What Are the Signs of Stress?

People who constantly experience stress may display symptoms like:

• Low energy levels
• Difficulty making decisions
• Poor concentration or memory
• Feeling overwhelmed or out of control
• Irritability or restlessness
• Sadness or isolation from others

The severity of these symptoms can vary depending on the person and their exact circumstances.

How Does Stress Impact Your Life?

Overtime, these symptoms can start impeding your ability to carry out everyday tasks and affect other areas of your life like:

• Work and personal relationships
• Work performance
• Quality of life

Stress Management for Better Mental Wellbeing

Managing stress is necessary for taking care of your mental health. Here are some applicable steps that you can take:

• Begin by prioritizing your daily duties. Make a list and concentrate on checking off on the most essential points.
• Stay organized, employing instruments like calendars, reminders, and lists to keep track of your duties.
• Make time for physical exercises to release endorphins and improve your mood.
• Find your Zen by practicing mindfulness and meditation to decrease stress and stay grounded in the present.
• Take breathers throughout the day to give yourself peace and relaxation, particularly when things get overwhelming.
• Reach out to a trusted friend or family member for help and perspective when dealing with stressful situations.
• Prioritize getting 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night to control stress levels effectively.
• Schedule reserved “me time” for self-care activities like reading, music, or hobbies.

Professional Help for Stress and Mental Health Disorders

Sometimes, we all need extra reinforcement to manage stress and mental health. That’s where places ART IOP can step in.

Located right in Canoga Park, CA, ART IOP is a trusted outpatient addiction treatment facility that’s all about helping individuals like you navigate the impact of stress on our overall wellbeing.

Here at ART IOP, we offer a range of treatment programs tailored to meet your needs. These include outpatient, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient programs.

Our team of skilled mental health professionals is committed to working closely with each patient, creating a personalized treatment plan that manages your unique challenges and goals.

Take Control of Your Wellbeing: Seek Help and Rediscover the Best Parts of You

Dealing with stress and its effects on your health might feel overwhelming, but remember, you don’t have to face it unaided.

At ART IOP, we are devoted to providing you with the support and resources to regain authority over your wellbeing.

Our addiction rehab center is dedicated to helping clients address stress by adjusting their daily routines and rediscovering their inner potential.

Contact us to explore how our addiction treatment programs can contribute to a more stress-free life.

Remember that we are available at every stage of your addiction journey and ready to provide you with the support you need. Let us be a part of your experience!