During Stress Awareness Month this April, medical experts urge all individuals to prioritize their mental health. Dr. Jeffrey Guina, Program Director of the Psychiatry Residency Training Program at Corewell Health, emphasizes that while some people are more prone to stress than others, it is a condition that can affect anyone. To combat stress, activities such as massage and yoga can provide relief.
Genetics play an important role in the risk of developing disorders such as PTSD, depression, or anxiety. Dr. Guina notes that those with a family history of these conditions may be particularly vulnerable. Furthermore, environmental factors like childhood abuse, neglect, or trauma can also contribute to elevated levels of stress and anxiety.
Dr. Asha Shajahan, the Medical Director of Community Health for Corewell Grosse Pointe, is proud to share her expertise on the subject of stress. She highlights the physical effects that can be associated with chronic stress, such as muscle tension, rapid heart rate or breathing, and increased blood pressure which can lead to panic attacks, heart attacks, or strokes. Dr. Shajahan also understands the underlying genetic and environmental factors that contribute to certain mental health disorders, noting that individuals with a family history of mental health issues may be particularly vulnerable.
She goes on to draw attention to the wide-ranging effects of chronic stress, which can include stomach aches, bloating, diarrhea, obesity, diabetes, and a weakened immune system.
She acknowledges that substance abuse is often viewed as a short-term solution, but points out that it can create a vicious cycle of dependency and lead to long-term dysfunction. Shajahan concurs, noting that with the recent legalization of marijuana in Michigan, many people may think it relieves stress, but in reality, it could worsen anxiety and produce irritability during withdrawal. By contrast, they both strongly encourage finding healthy activities to relax and cope with stress in a safe and productive way.
Regular exercise, proper sleep and enjoyable leisure activities such as going outdoors or spending time with family are a few recommended strategies. Furthermore, Shajahan suggests seeking support from a network of friends, family, clergy or psychological professionals if needed; in some cases, formal treatments such as medication may be beneficial.
Guina adds that issues such as stress and trauma should not be overlooked, as ignoring them could lead to dire consequences. He states: “It’s important to remember that self-harm or suicide can be extreme results from (stress and anxiety). While this may not be an outcome for everyone, for some people, it can be the end of the road if these issues go untreated.”
Stress is a condition that can affect anyone, and it isn’t something to take lightly. April is Stress Awareness Month, and experts encourage us to make mental health a priority. By engaging in activities such as massage and yoga to promote relaxation, incorporating healthy lifestyle choices, and seeking a medical professional’s help if the stress levels become too much to bear, everyone can combat negativity and find positive outlets for emotions. Building a strong support system with family members and friends that share similar experiences may help to ease stress-related problems as well as open up discussion channels leading to better coping strategies. Stress should never stop us from living our life to the fullest or launch us into desperate measures of abating anxiety. As long as we are mindful of its symptoms and keep track of our stress triggers, any of us can make progress towards improving the different elements that comprise our mental health wellness.
