HIGH STRESS LEVELS IMPACT HEALTH

“Remember that stress doesn’t come from what’s going on in your life.  It comes from your thoughts about what’s going on in your life.” Andrew J. Bernstein

What is Stress?

Stress is a natural response of the body to any challenge or threat. It triggers a series of physiological changes in the body, preparing it to respond to the perceived danger. They may be recurring, short- term, or long-term. However, prolonged exposure to stressors can lead to chronic stress, which can have a negative impact on a person’s physical and mental health.

Physical Response to Stress

Stress is a natural physiological response of the body to any challenge or threat. It triggers the release of stress hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol, which help the body prepare to respond to the perceived danger. This response is commonly known as the fight or flight response. Stress can be triggered by a range of factors, including work-related pressures, financial problems, relationship difficulties, and health concerns.

Chronic Stress

Chronic stress is a prolonged state of stress that can have a negative impact on a person’s physical and mental health. The symptoms of chronic stress can vary from person to person, but common symptoms include:

• Fatigue and exhaustion
• Insomnia or disturbed sleep patterns
• Irritability, anxiety, or depression
• Physical symptoms such as headaches, muscle tension, and digestive problems
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Increased use of alcohol, tobacco, or drugs

Who Does it Affect?

Chronic stress can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. However, some groups may be more susceptible to chronic stress, such as individuals in high-stress professions, caregivers, individuals with chronic health conditions, and those experiencing financial or social stressors.

How Does it Hurt the Brain and Body?

Prolonged exposure to chronic stress can lead to burnout. Continued stress can have a negative impact on a person’s physical and mental health. Chronic stress can increase the risk of developing a range of health problems, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and depression. Stress can also affect the brain by shrinking the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for decision-making and impulse control. Chronic stress can also cause the hippocampus, which is responsible for memory, to shrink. This can lead to memory problems and difficulty learning.

How Does Holistic Coaching Effectively Help Clients Manage Stress?

Holistic coaching takes a whole-person approach to managing stress. It focuses on addressing the underlying causes of stress, rather than just the symptoms. Holistic coaching involves working with a coach who helps clients identify the root causes of their stress and develop personalized strategies for managing stress. Holistic coaching may include a range of techniques, such as meditation, mindfulness, exercise, nutrition, and self-care practices.

Holistic coaching can be effective in helping clients manage stress because it addresses the underlying causes of stress, rather than just the symptoms. It helps clients develop a deeper understanding of their stress triggers and provides them with the tools they need to manage stress in a healthy and sustainable way. By taking a whole-person approach, holistic coaching can help clients achieve greater physical and mental well-being, and improve their quality of life.

Hope-Full Coaching

Coach Deborah helps individuals manage stress by taking a whole-person approach to addressing the underlying causes of stress. Through science-based tools and strategies, her clients develop personalized strategies for managing stress, achieve greater physical and mental well-being, and improve their quality of life. Contact us.