Good things and “stressy” things
Hello and welcome back to my 3rd blog post.
Things are quite exciting today because I have had a brief article published in the ACCPH newsletter, if you are interested in reading it click here.
If you would like to read this snippet and share any thoughts you may have, you would be very welcome to, I would be interested to hear what people have to think.
I would also like to talk a little bit about how stress and anxiety can manifest in various physiological symptoms, which are a result of the body's "fight or flight" response triggered by the autonomic nervous system when a threat is perceived. This response prepares the body to either face the threat or flee from it, leading to a range of physical reactions.
Cardiovascular symptoms are common, with individuals often experiencing an increased heart rate and palpitations, the sensation of a rapid, fluttering, or pounding heart. Stress can also lead to elevated blood pressure levels. Respiratory symptoms can include rapid breathing, known as hyperventilation, which can create a feeling of shortness of breath, often accompanied by chest tightness.
The digestive system is also frequently affected. Many people report stomachaches or nausea under stress. Indigestion or heartburn can be exacerbated by anxiety. It is sometimes prevalent in children who tell their parents they have a stomachache when they are frightened to go to school.
Musculoskeletal symptoms include muscle tension, leading to pain or stiffness, and tension headaches resulting from prolonged muscle tension in the head, neck, and shoulders.
Sleep disturbances are another common consequence, with individuals often suffering from insomnia or restless sleep, characterized by frequent waking or non-restorative sleep due to anxiety. Additionally, chronic stress can weaken the immune system, making one more susceptible to illnesses.
Managing stress and anxiety typically involves lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, adequate sleep, healthy eating, and stress-reduction techniques like mindfulness, meditation, and deep breathing exercises. In some cases, professional help from a therapist or counselor, or medication prescribed by a healthcare provider, may be necessary to address these physiological symptoms effectively.
The reasons behind these physiological symptoms are often quite valid to pay attention to.
As a therapist/counsellor I am not immune to these concerns. In addition to having MS, I also have type one diabetes. When experiencing a stressful situation my blood sugars can tend to go high to the extent of feeling these anxiety related symptomologies. Now I can’t guarantee that lowering my blood sugars is as simple as utilizing CBT deep breathing techniques because sometimes I might have just eaten too much chocolate! If I can pinpoint the exact reason for feeling physiologically unsettled then I may be able to reduce my blood sugar levels as long as I continue observing the pattern my blood sugars are following.
Anyway enough from me, take care and keep well!
Sian