22 | HUNTSVILLE LIVING | FERUARY 2024
8
things women should know about stress
Stress can be paradoxical . A certain amount of stress can motivate people to get things done . But having too much can cause a person to resist doing anything at all . The Cleveland Clinic says stress is the body ’ s response to daily events that occur in life . When stress becomes chronic , it can be negative and destructive , making it hard to adapt and cope .
Chronic stress is a concern for many women . The Office on Women ’ s Health says women are more likely than men to report symptoms of stress , including headaches and upset stomach . They ’ re also more likely to have mental health conditions that are exacerbated by stress , including anxiety and depression . Learning the facts about stress can help women care for their mental well-being . Here are eight things to know . 1 . 1 . Stress can manifest in emotional , cognitive or physical symptoms . Notable physical symptoms include muscle tension and headaches as well as fatigue and low energy . Emotional symptoms may include increased worry , mood swings or irritability .
2 . 2 . Stress can lead to unhealthy habits . Women have higher risk of overeating due to stress , and may become inactive or smoke to cope with stress , says the American Heart Association .
3 . 3 . Common causes of long-term stress include poverty and financial worries . Women in poverty who care for children or other family members may develop more severe stress , says the Office of Assistant Secretary for Health .
4 . 4 . Women respond to stress differently . Healthline indicates women have a higher percentage of perception of stress than men , and also are more apt to realize they must manage it . Seventy percent of women have tried to reduce stress over the past five years .
5 . 5 . Research reported on by the American Psychological Association says women are more likely to internalize stress , leading more readily to both physical and mental disorders . Men tend to be better at disassociating from stress .
6 . 6 . Women are more likely to cancel plans due to stress than men , despite realizing they could use more social support . 7 . 7 . Stress can disrupt hormonal balance in women , leading to menstrual irregularities . 8 . 8 . Stress can trigger increased pain sensitivity , making women more prone to tension headaches and migraine attacks . Stress can take its toll on anyone , including women . Recognizing help is needed , setting measurable targets and being realistic about managing stress can help women feel better . WT243749
22 | HUNTSVILLE LIVING | FERUARY 2024