SALT LAKE CITY — We all experience stress, whether from work, school or relationships. Stress is a natural response to a challenge or threat, but prolonged stress can negatively impact your physical and mental well-being.
“It’s a part of normal life. It’s not something that we should run away from, but we do need to be aware of the difference between healthy or productive stress and unhealthy stress,” Dr. Tim Fowles said, a clinical psychologist and the Health Services Research Director at Intermountain’s Healthcare Delivery Institute. “If you’re in traffic or you have a meeting with your boss or you have a blind date, these are all normal places where you experience some stress, and that’s okay. It’s a problem when it becomes overwhelming or chronic.”
According to The American Institute of Stress, 77% of people regularly experience physical symptoms caused by stress, including headaches, dizziness, gut issues and fatigue. If left unchecked, stress can lead to more serious complications.
“Some people, unfortunately, find themselves in that environment of chronic stress, and it can lead to heart disease, anxiety, depression, a host of health problems,” Fowles said.
While scrolling on social media or indulging in a sweet treat might provide temporary stress relief, Fowles said it’s more effective to prioritize a healthy routine, like exercising, eating right and getting quality sleep.
“Exercise doesn’t feel as good as chocolate in the short term, but if you stick with it, it pays big dividends,” he said.
Also, Fowles adds, spend time connecting and socializing with others, practice mindfulness and find creative outlets.
“All of those things help you to kind of balance your life in a way that actually helps your stress response when you need it,” Fowles said.
Check in with yourself and your stress levels often. If your coping mechanisms aren’t working, it may be time to seek additional support. Fowles suggests talking to your healthcare provider about any mental well-being concerns.
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If you or a loved one is experiencing a crisis, call or text 988 to reach the free Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Trained crisis counselors are available 24/7, 365 days a year.
- The free Intermountain Behavioral Health Navigation Line is available seven days a week at 833-442-2211.
- You can also utilize the free CredibleMind website to help with managing mental well-being needs: https://intermountainhealth.crediblemind.com/
- The American Institute of Stress
BY for KSLTV
