ADVENTHEALTHMANCHESTER.COM 3 What to know about stress WHEN YOU FACE a problem or threat, your body releases stress hormones. They make your heart beat faster and increase your blood sugar and blood pressure to help you react quickly. You may feel emotional symptoms of stress, such as irritability, depression and difficulty focusing. You might have physical problems as well, such as an upset stomach or tense muscles. Over time, stress can lead to health problems like high blood pressure or a weakened immune system. Stress can make it hard to stay at a healthy weight and cause headaches and problems with sleep. HOW TO COPE Try these strategies to reduce your stress: ● Adjust your schedule. Plan time for yourself. ● Make a move. Exercise can ease tension. ● Choose healthy foods. Eating well can help you stay healthy. ● Get plenty of ZZZs. Sleep helps your body heal. ● Give caffeine a break. Too much can make you feel jittery or anxious. ● Plan ahead. Decide how you will handle a stressful family gathering, for example. ● Relax your muscles and your mind. Try simple stretches or mindful breathing. ● Talk to your inner circle. Ask your family and friends for support. WHEN TO SEEK HELP If stress is affecting you, let your primary care provider know. To find a provider, visit GetHelpManchester.com. If you are in crisis, go to the nearest emergency room or call 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Sources: American Academy of Family Physicians; National Library of Medicine; U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; U.S. Food and Drug Administration Why mental health matters Mental health is crucial to our emotional, psychological and social well-being. When you have good mental health, you have healthy relationships and are productive in school or at work. You can adapt and cope with life’s changes and challenges. There are many types of mental illnesses, and each has distinct symptoms. However, there are some common symptoms that could signal something is wrong. Ask yourself the following questions to see if your mental health is OK. If you answer yes to any of these questions and you’ve had these problems for the past few weeks or months, talk to your primary care provider: > Have you lost your appetite? > Do you think negative thoughts about yourself? > Do you frequently feel anxious or worry a lot? > Are you irritable or moody? > Are you having problems concentrating? > Is life not as enjoyable as it used to be? > Is it hard to do things like get out of bed or go to work? > Are you sleeping too much or too little? > Are you seeing or hearing things that really aren’t there? Get the help you need Getting help for a mental illness is a sign of strength—not weakness. Effective treatments, such as medications and counseling, are available. Lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet and exercising, may help too. Your provider may refer you to a mental health professional for more help. Sources: American Academy of Family Physicians; American Psychiatric Association; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
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