Stress: Are you feeling stressed?

What Is Stress?

From a psychological perspective, stress is considered to be a feeling of strain or pressure. The stress response can be due to factors which are real or even perceived. Stress is considered to be a part of everyday life. Stress can be beneficial. It helps us become motivated, and react, as well as adapt to our environment. Excessive levels of stress can however lead to an unhealthy situation.

Why Is It Important To Treat Stress?

Stress is suspected to be a risk factor (possible cause) for a broad range conditions. Excessive levels of stress have been link to increased levels of a hormone called cortisol. High levels of cortisol have been linked to strokes, heart attacks, low bone density, high cholesterol and depression.

Alternatively, a patient may experience a health condition which is believed to have its root cause in stress.  Such conditions are called “psychogenic conditions”. These are commonly seen in clinical setting. Since the Chinese Medicine model is a holistic system of heath, the psychogenic causes of illness are factored into the diagnostic system. Examples of common symptoms which the Chinese Medicine model may attribute to psychogenic origins include: headaches/migraines; dizziness; irritable bowel syndrome; and insomnia. It is important to make it clear that there are potentially numerous causes of these symptoms. Consequently, if you are experiencing any of these symptoms, seek professional advice.