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The mental and physical tolls of stress can be debilitating and lead to many health complications if not addressed, including anxiety, depression, physical health problems, and even addiction. Fortunately, there are ways to combat this. Continue reading to learn more about stress, its side effects and triggers, and how to cope.
What are some side effects of stress?
One of the most common side effects is stress hair loss. When the body is stressed, it releases hormones such as cortisol that can cause the hair follicles to shrink and eventually stop producing hair. If you find yourself struggling with hair loss from stress, use a good-quality shampoo and conditioner and avoid excessive heat styling. It is important to keep the scalp healthy by using a scalp massage oil and avoiding excessive scratching.
What are some ways to cope with stress?
First and foremost, don’t be afraid to seek professional help like Charlotte therapists if you feel like you can’t manage your stress on your own. A therapist can help you identify the causes of stress in your life and develop coping strategies. Some other effective ways to cope with stress include the following:
Exercise. Exercise can help reduce stress in a number of ways. It can help release endorphins, which are hormones that have mood-boosting effects. It also helps to improve your overall mood and can be a great way to relieve tension and anxiety. In addition, exercise can help to improve your sleep quality, which can also be affected by stress. When you are well-rested, you are less likely to feel overwhelmed by stress. Exercise is also a great way to reduce tension in your body and can help to improve your overall physical health. By taking care of your body, you are taking care of your mind and can better manage stress.
Create a support network. In addition to self-care, it’s important to have a support system in place. Talk to your friends and family about your stress and how they can help. Ask them to check in on you, provide a listening ear, and offer practical support when needed.
What triggers stress?
While everyone experiences stress in different ways, there are some general tips that can help identify and manage triggers. One common trigger is exposure to loud noise. Whether it is the sound of a jackhammer outside your window or the roar of a crowd at a sporting event, continuous exposure to loud noise can be extremely stressful. If this is a trigger for you, try to find ways to limit your exposure. Wear headphones or earplugs when you know you will be in a noisy environment, or take breaks to step away from the noise.
Another common trigger is conflict. Whether it is an argument with a loved one or a disagreement with a colleague, stressful conflicts can cause a lot of tension. If this is a trigger for you, try to find ways to defuse the situation. Take a few deep breaths, walk away for a few minutes, or talk to a friend or therapist to help you calm down.
Finally, another common trigger is feeling overwhelmed. Whether it is due to a busy schedule or too many responsibilities, feeling overwhelmed can be very stressful. If this is a trigger for you, try to take some time for yourself. Take a relaxing bath, read your favorite book, or take a walk in nature. Taking a few minutes for yourself each day can help reduce the overall stress in your life.
Overall, it’s important to take care of yourself both physically and mentally. Learn your triggers, seek the help of a therapist, and make time for activities that bring you joy, such as exercise, meditation, or spending time with loved ones. Putting yourself first isn’t selfish: It’s essential to maintaining your health and well-being.