Managing Stress

High levels of stress can have a negative impact on both our mental and physical well being. We can learn stress management skills to stay healthy.

When we suffer from stress our bodies are commonly reacting to a ‘fight or flight’ response. This response prepares us to take action against potential danger and in doing so hormones are released such as adrenaline and cortisol which speed up our heart rate, metabolism and breathing. This response can be useful for short term dangers and improving motivation and performance. When we experience stress for long periods it can be very damaging both physically and emotionally. As we learn to take control and manage our stress symptoms we will improve our physical health.

If you are experiencing stress and you are feeling unable to cope then seek advice and support from one of our psychologists at Barrenjoey Psychology.  A psychologist will help you with skills to manage your stress. This will help improve your well-being physically as well as mentally.  They are trained in using  multiple strategies and skills training. Some examples are learning to recognize what triggers stress, using relaxation techniques and lifestyle changes. They may help you to schedule exercise and spend time doing things you enjoy. Research shows high levels of stress have a negative effect on our physical well-being and put us at risk of serious illnesses such as heart disease.

A study by Dr. Elizabeth Blackburn and Dr Elissa Epel discovered a biological indicator called telomerase, the enzyme that replenishes telomeres. Each of our DNA molecules has an end called a telomere and research shows people who have suffered periods of stress and negative thinking have shorter telomeres and then do not live as long as those who manage their stress better. Epel’s research shows that the length and health of one’s telomeres are a biological underpinning of the long-hypothesized mind-body connection.

If you do suffer from stress having a stress check up and a few sessions with a trained psychologist from Barrenjoey Psychology can help you manage this better. This will save you spending money on serious health issues and perhaps not being well enough to work later in life. We are available after hours with offices in Warriewood which is only 1.9km from Mona Vale on Sydney’s northern beaches.

Credit: This document refers to the book The Telomere Effect: A Revolutionary Approach to Living Younger, Healthier, Longer 2017 by Dr. Elizabeth Blackburn (Author), Dr. Elissa Epel (Author)

If you are in crisis or require urgent care please call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or call 000 for an ambulance.