What Is Stress?

Stress is defined as the body’s response to the demands of everyday living and is the underlying cause of 60% of all human illness and disease.1 While there is no magic pill to reduce or eliminate stress, there are several ways we can learn to manage the stress in our lives. 

Stress may affect health in multiple negative ways Stress can affect:

• The digestive system – stress may cause issues such as heart burn, acid reflux, nausea, diarrhea and constipation.
• Heart health – increased blood pressure may increases risk for stroke and heart attack.

• The Immune System – stress may weaken the immune system which increases susceptibility to viral illness and infection.

• Weight Gain – the stress hormone cortisol may increase the craving fats and carbohydrates, which may cause weight gain, particularly in the abdominal area. This raises the risk for heart disease and diabetes.
• Mental Health – chronic stress is a factor in behaviors such as overeating or not eating enough, alcohol or drug abuse, and social withdrawal.2

The power of positive thinking:

Whether we see the glass as half empty or half full is an indication of how we perceive things in life. Research suggests negative thinking not only affects health, but also our stress level.

Individuals with an optimistic attitude:

• May be better able to cope with stress
• Have a better immune system
• Are less likely to get depressed
• Catch few infectious diseases
• Have better health habits
• Often live a longer, healthier life