Stress is an inevitable part of life, and its impact on our health is profound and multifaceted. This infographic sheds light on the most common sources of stress, how stress hormones affect the body, and the varied ways people respond to stress.
Common Sources of Stress
According to recent surveys, the most common sources of stress reported by people who experienced a major stressful event in the past year are as follows:
- Health Issues: 43%
- Illness and Disease: 27%
- Death of a Loved One: 16%
- Problems with Work: 13%
- Life Changes or Transitions: 9%
- Family Events or Issues: 9%
- Personal Relationships: 6%
How Stress Affects the Body
Stress triggers the release of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), which affects the levels of cortisol and catecholamines in the body. Elevated cortisol levels can have several adverse effects on health:
- Higher Blood Pressure
- Decreased Immune Function: Reduces the body’s ability to fight off diseases and infections.
- Increased Blood Sugar Levels: Poses a risk for individuals with diabetes or a family history of diabetes.
- Increased Fat Storage: Particularly around the abdomen, which can lead to weight gain.
These changes can collectively contribute to an increased risk of heart problems.
Top Responses to Stress
People who reported experiencing a great deal of stress in the past month exhibited various changes in behavior and lifestyle:
- Sleeping Less: 70% reported sleeping less than usual.
- Eating Less: 44% reported eating less than usual.
- Exercising or Playing Sports Less: 43% reported a decrease in physical activity.
- Attending Religious Services or Praying More: 41% reported an increase in religious or spiritual activities.
- Sleeping More: 41% reported sleeping more than usual.
- Having Less Sex: 40% reported a decrease in sexual activity.
- Eating More: 39% reported eating more than usual.
- Watching TV or Playing Video Games More: 33% reported an increase in these activities.
- Using Social Media Less: 28% reported a decrease in social media usage.
- Exercising or Playing Sports More: 26% reported an increase in physical activity.
Conclusion
Understanding the sources and effects of stress, as well as recognizing common responses, can help individuals manage stress more effectively. By addressing the root causes and making mindful changes in behavior, it is possible to mitigate the negative health impacts of stress and improve overall well-being.
How does stress affect our mental and physical health? Check out the helpful infographic below from Fix.com for more information about sources of stress, its effects, and responses to it.
