21 facts that will make you realize the worth of a stress-free life!

Updated on December 22, 2021 10:31 AM by Andrew Koschiev

The word 'stress' has become a part of our mundane lives. Almost everyone in this world has experienced stress. Our lifestyle has changed over the years, and we are currently living in an overly competitive world where we are almost always busy with either school or work or raising kids. Taking a day off seems almost like a dream. However, to live a healthy and longer life, it is important that we take a break from all our work and relax and have a stress-free day. The adverse effects of stress make it mandatory for everyone to prioritize stress relief.

Let's look at some stress facts that will likely make you realize how important it is to live a stress-free existence.

It’s actually a response!

Did you know that your body's stress response is a hormonal response? You heard it right!

This is what happens when we get stressed!!

When we feel stressed, a part of our brain called the hypothalamus sends signals throughout our nervous system to our kidneys. That's when the kidneys release stress hormones that include adrenaline and cortisol.

It’s true that women are prone to stress.

Women experience more stress than men. However, it does not mean that men do not experience stress; it's just that they tend to escape from stress and not show any signs of it.

Do you know those times when it feels like our mind is flooded with endless thoughts?

This is produced by stress, which overburdens and overworks our minds with unending anxieties. It feels almost impossible to stop ourselves from worrying.

Shaky fingers? Could be stress!

Stress can cause you to feel dizzy, and your fingers also might shake. This is due to hormonal releases.

Here’s why we sweat when we stress out!

Stress causes your blood pressure to rise. Hence, we feel hot and sweat when we're nervous.

It also affects our digestive system!

Stress can also cause digestive problems like stomach upset, diarrhea, etc.

The negative effects of stress are endless!

Stress does not just make you feel irritated and angry but also affects sleep.

Stress can induce depression too.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health Trusted Source, anxiety and depression are the most common risks of long-term stress.

Can’t sleep at night? Could be stress!

Chronic stress can make you feel exhausted, and you might feel sleepy even during the daytime. This can also be the result of insomnia due to stress.

Oh and how can we forget the annoying headaches!

There's no doubt that tension headaches are caused by stress. These headaches become chronic in case of long-term stress.

Another symptom is shortness of breath.

Shortness of breath is common with stress. In the case of stressful situations, people with social anxiety may experience shortness of breath. The actual breath issues are due to tightness in the breathing muscles. As the muscles get more tired, the shortness of breath may worsen.

Breaking out often? Here’s why!

Stress can cause acne breakouts. Stress can also create itchy rashes.

Affects the immune system too!

You'll get sick more often if you experience frequent stress because it decreases your immune system.

Irregular periods can occur!

Stress affects regular menstrual cycles, and women may even miss their period due to stress.

You get prone to substance abuse.

Chronic stress can cause substance abuse. People with stress are more likely to smoke or do drugs and consume alcohol.

You might even become diabetic!

Cortisol, a stress hormone, can cause an increase in blood glucose synthesis. Thus, increasing the risk for type 2 diabetes.

You will eventually welcome obesity.

Excessive cortisol released from adrenal glands above the kidneys can cause fats to accumulate. Stress-induced habits of binge eating or stress eating junk food can cause you to gain excess weight.

Heart damage and chronic stress go in hand in hand.

Chronic stress can result in heart failure. Stress causes blood pressure to rise, which ultimately leads to permanent damage to the heart. Stress can also cause abnormal heartbeats and chest pain.

Exercise! Exercise! Exercise!

Exercise helps the brain make serotonin, which can help you maintain a healthy life without stress, anxiety, or depression.

It’s always good for the health to spend time with loved ones.

Spending time with friends and family and having a good time with them can ward off stress. We must build healthy relationships because they can reduce our stress levels. One of the significant sources of stress is a lack of support at home.

Managing stress is the key.

According to the Mayo Clinic, people who know how to manage stress live healthier lives.