Stress Management

The Epidemic of Chronic Stress

Chronic stress is a huge problem in our modern world. Based on a 2023 survey by the American Psychological Association, stress levels in America are on the rise.

Not all stress is bad for us. Little bits of stress in life can actually help us focus and get things done. A temporary increase in stress bumps up our adrenaline level which can increase our concentration and alertness. Remember: stress should ideally be a temporary event.

Chronic stress is completely different. It elevates our adrenaline levels day after day, and doesn't allow our body or mind to quiet down and rest. Chronic stress can increase inflammation inside our body, can disrupt the Autonomic Nervous System balance within our body and can result in symptoms such as:

Anxiety
Depression
Digestive issues
Headaches
Muscle tension and pain
Cardiovascular disease (high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke)
Weakened immune system
Unexplained changes in weight (loss or gain)
Sleep issues
Memory and concentration issues

Courtesy of American Psychological Association

Stress Management Techniques

It is not logical (or possible) for each of us to eliminate stress from our lives but we can try to manage stress better by using some tools to create a protective bubble around ourselves so that stress will essentially "bounce" right off.

Here are some well-researched techniques that can help to manage stress:

Journaling
Expressive writing
Expressing emotions through a creative process such as art or music
Spending time in nature
Meditation
Breathing exercises
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) therapy (Dr. Wang anticipates offering this therapy once she completes her Integrative Medicine Fellowship)
Helping others
Spending time in the company of others who are happy and make you happy
Set boundaries for yourself (turn off your phone at night, be selective about how you share your time with obligations)
Improve your sleep
Drink more water (most of us do not drink enough water)
Laugh more (you'd be amazed at how powerful this little tool is!)
Vagus nerve stimulation

Keep in mind that you may need to try different techniques to find one that best suits you. Dr. Wang is familiar with most of these techniques and can help you find one that best fits your personality and lifestyle.

Courtesy of The Art of Living Foundation @YouTube

Stress Management Resources

(Please note that these books and techniques are shared simply because they may offer useful information for patients. There is no compensation to endorse anything on our website.)

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