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Managing Stress in a Fast-Paced World - Enjoying a Busy Life

The Harmful Side of Stress

When you face a stressor, your body responds to it to help you handle that situation. But if you're often under stress, your body's response can be harmful. You may become ill or develop mental or emotional problems. Also, stress can affect how you act.

Your Body's Response to Stress

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When you're faced with stress, certain hormones (chemicals in your body) are released. These hormones trigger many changes in your body. For instance, your:

  • Heart may pound

  • Blood pressure may rise

  • Stomach may become tense

  • Muscles may tighten



The Long-term Effects of Stress

If you're often under stress, you need to learn to manage it well. If you don't, stress can affect your well-being. Over time, you may show symptoms of being stressed. Some of these symptoms are listed below.

Physical

Frequent colds or flu, headaches, trouble sleeping, muscle tension, skin problems, trouble with digestion

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Mental

Poor concentration, forgetfulness, learning problems, frequent negative thoughts, speech problems

Emotional

Anxiety, depression, anger, irritability, feelings of helplessness, a lack of purpose, relationship troubles

Behavioral

Eating poorly, driving recklessly, abusing alcohol or drugs, being accident prone, showing aggression



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