Healthy Living Tips from
The New Jersey Police Chief Magazine | February 2022
HEALTH TIP : Stress Can be a Killer
Stress is proving to be a major problem for people right now .
“ Obviously the pandemic is contributing heavily to increased stress ,” said Renee Bullock-Palmer , MD , board certified cardiologist at Deborah Heart and Lung Center . “ Three years into this people are constantly worried about unexpected school closings and finding child care , worrying about being exposed and getting sick , money troubles caused by missing work due to quarantining or child care , isolation from friends and families to stay safer through social distancing , and other health problems that might be increasing because people are delaying care . This is all a recipe for increased stress levels .”
Dr . Bullock-Palmer explains that stress plays a vital role at certain times , with a “ fight or flight ” mechanism . During stressful situations many hormones like adrenaline , cortisol and norepinephrine increase . “ These can help people short-term get through an emergency situation like quickly avoiding a car accident or escaping a house fire .”
Risks of Ongoing Stress
However , when there is a sustained stressful situation , and these hormones continue to be released , they can cause physical and emotional health problems .
“ We see many stressed patients with headaches , upset stomachs , chest pains , sleep problems , depression and panic attacks . This can also lead to long-term serious cardiovascular issues like heart disease , high blood pressure , abnormal heart rhythms and stroke .”
“ Part of the problem is that stressed people often do other unhealthy activities like overeating leading to weight gain and consuming too much alcohol , tobacco smoking , or indulging in other unhealthy habits which take a cumulative toll on the body .”
Effective Stress Management
Dr . Bullock-Palmer recommends taking stock of your stress levels and trying to pinpoint what is causing it . “ Stress cannot be eliminated from our daily lives ,” she says . “ However , one can manage how they respond to stress .”
“ Is there something you can do to relieve the stress ? Are you taking on too much and if so , can you delegate responsibilities ? Are you overreacting to situations , or striving for perfection in imperfect times ? Are you expecting too much or just feeling overwhelmed ?”
“ Figuring out what the source of the stress is can really help . Pull in resources if you need them . Also , take a break from the news cycle and social media so you can relax and unwind . And it ’ s very important that you take your physical and mental health seriously : try to avoid overeating , try to keep active with exercise , don ’ t drink too much , and try not to sleep too little or too much .”
“ Remember we are all in this together . The pandemic won ’ t last forever and spring is right around the corner . Find what brings you small joys every day , and focus on that . And if you find things are more than you can handle , seek professional help .”
For more information , visit www . DemandDeborah . org or call 855-646-3484 .
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