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Chronic Stress

Stress is an important part of the way your body reacts to danger or challenges.

But when you’re constantly facing situations that feel overwhelming and put you on high alert, you start to deal with a never-ending feeling of “fight or flight.” Constant stressors can lead to a chronic activation of your response system and put you at higher risk for physical and mental health problems.

Think you may have a stress condition?

27% of U.S. adults report feeling so stressed they can’t function on most days.

77

of people experience stress that affects their physical health

73

of people experience stress that impacts their mental health

Understanding Chronic Stress

Common Symptoms

Acute stress is the response to immediate situations that don’t last very long, like having an argument or doing something that feels scary. You may feel a racing heartbeat or sweaty palms.

Chronic stress does not typically resolve on its own without additional lifestyle changes or support from a mental health provider. You may experience both physical and emotional symptoms from chronic stress, including:

Physical

  • Aches and pains
  • Stomach issues like nausea and diarrhea
  • Headaches and dizziness
  • Low energy
  • Muscle tension and chest pain
  • Insomnia
Emotional

  • Difficulty relaxing
  • Racing thoughts
  • Constant worrying
  • Feeling overwhelmed
  • Loss of sex drive

Causes

Chronic stress results from repeated stressors that can last for weeks, months, or even years. Some common causes include:

  • Financial problems
  • Work pressures or unemployment
  • Family or relationship difficulties like divorce or full-time care of someone
  • Health problems
  • Big life events like buying a house or having a baby
  • Traumatic events

Chronic stress can increase your risk of developing anxiety or depression. Coping with stress in unhealthy ways like with alcohol or drugs can negatively impact your mental health even more.

How We Can Help

If lifestyle changes or attempts to manage stress on your own have not helped, it may be time to talk to a professional about additional support.

MindGlow Health providers are experienced in improving stress management as part of an overall mental health treatment plan. Drawing on a vibrant legacy of nearly 25 years at the forefront of behavioral health excellence, our providers will work one on one with you to create a tailored program designed to treat your unique needs and concerns.

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Talk Therapy Benefits

Talk therapy can be a key part of managing stress and improving your overall well being.

Mindglow Health providers will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan that may include one of a variety of styles of therapy to help you identify negative thought patterns and behaviors that impact your stress levels. They may use other tools and exercises to reduce symptoms and manage stress, while recommending certain lifestyle changes to support your mental health journey. 

All our therapists are licensed, qualified, and experienced mental health professionals.

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Medication Management

Medication may be necessary for some people with chronic stress issues. 

If recommended to reduce symptoms and improve your mood, your therapist will work with our psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNP) to prescribe an appropriate medication as part of a unique program that works for you.

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