Normal, everyday stress is not altogether bad as it can help us complete tasks that need to be done, finished, and put-to-bed. After which our stress subsides and we can get on with our lives. Its long-term stress that puts our physical and mental health in danger. When we are stressed our heart rate increases, our blood pressure rises, and our muscles become tense, these stress symptoms can cause headaches, stomach upsets, eating and sleeping problems. So, it stands to reason that long-term stress can play havoc with our mental and physical state. Long-term stress, tension and worry can bring about a feeling of low self-esteem and can result in unnecessarily worrying about issues, such as relatively simple health problems, fear of seeking medical help, constantly being irritable, constantly finding fault, and gradual withdrawal into ourselves. Putting off going out, refusing to mix with others, shows how solitary we may have become. Many years ago, I took to caring for my own mother, it was indeed a very stressful three-years. My own GP knew of the situation and one day my doctor called me into his office (To discuss my mother’s health issues I assumed) instead, he started to ask me a lot of personal questions. I must have appeared so stressed that he was questioning my own mental health. Once I was aware of his questioning, I relaxed back, smiled, and said that I had not even thought about committing suicide or anything as drastic as that, and I thanked him profusely for his care… But it was obvious that he could see the stress I was under and I was grateful that he was aware and was prepared to help me if needed. So, if you are aware of any stress-related issues you are encountering be sure to seek help – fast!
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