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At some point everyone will experience stressful events or situations that will overwhelm their natural
coping mechanisms. In response to these physical and/or psychological stressors your brain releases
certain hormones (natural chemicals) which affect all systems of your body. The stress response can
be an asset for raising levels of performance during critical events such as a sports activity, or in
situations of actual danger or crisis. However, if low-level stress becomes persistent all parts of the
body’s stress apparatus (brain, heart, lungs, vessels & muscles) become chronically over or under
activated. This may produce physical and/or psychological damage over time. Possible health
problems can include:
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Many factors influence susceptibility to stress: early nurturing, personality traits, genetic factors,
immune regulated diseases, and length & quality of stressors.
People under chronic stress frequently seek relief through drug or alcohol abuse, tobacco use,
abnormal eating patterns, or passive activities. For example, drinking 4 to 5 cups of coffee can
cause changes in blood pressure and stress hormone levels similar to those produced by chronic
stress. The damage these self destructive habits cause under ordinary circumstances is
compounded by the physiological effects of stress itself, & the cycle is self perpetuating; a
sedentary routine, an unhealthy diet, alcohol abuse & smoking promote heart disease, interfere
with sleep patterns, and lead to increased rather than reduced tension levels.
The key to avoiding the negative side affects of stress is directly related to how you manage your
everyday stresses and handle especially stressful situations. Remember: “You cannot direct the
wind, but you can adjust the sails”. (~Bertha Calloway)
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