Stress affects all of us. It comes in many forms and can be caused by countless different types of experiences and life events. And April happens to be Stress Awareness Month; so, in this article, we are going to provide you with some interesting information pertaining to stress and explain how acupuncture therapy can help alleviate your daily stresses.
Defining Stress
It is difficult to give stress a definitive definition as it affects everyone differently. In general terms, stress is the way your body and mind react to perceived or tangible external occurrences. These occurrences may include daily struggles, adapting to changes within your life, and experiencing a traumatic event. And although stress commonly correlates to your fight-or-flight response, it is not always so black-and-white, meaning that the ways in which you experience stress may lie within a greyer area.
The Realities of Stress
Everyone experiences stress from time to time. There are different types of stress—all of which carry physical and mental health risks. A stressor may be a one-time or short-term occurrence, or it can happen repeatedly over a long time. Some people may cope with stress more effectively and recover from stressful events more quickly than others.
Examples of stress include:
- Routine stress related to the pressures of school, work, family, and other daily responsibilities.
- Stress brought about by a sudden negative change, such as losing a job, divorce, or illness.
- Traumatic stress experienced during an event such as a major accident, war, assault, or natural disaster where people may be in danger of being seriously hurt or killed. People who experience traumatic stress may have very distressing temporary emotional and physical symptoms, but most recover naturally soon after.
Not All Stress Is Negative
In a dangerous situation, stress signals the body to prepare to face a threat or flee to safety. In these situations, your pulse quickens, you breathe faster, your muscles tense, and your brain uses more oxygen and increases activity—all functions aimed at survival and in response to stress. In non-life-threatening situations, stress can motivate people, such as when they need to take a test or interview for a new job.
–NIMH
Successfully Managing Your Stress
While there are many ways to manage and cope with stress, one of the most effective methods is acupuncture therapy. In combination with proactive approaches including getting regular exercise and ensuring you set aside sufficient time to relax each day, acupuncture treatment can work to minimize the negative impacts stress may have on your life.
Learn More: Relieve Stress and Anxiety With Acupuncture Therapy
Achieving Mental Wellness With Acupuncture
Studies have shown that many people experience a noticeable decrease in stress and anxiety after just three months of acupuncture treatment. Our licensed acupuncture therapist can work with you directly, developing a treatment plan suited to meet your specific needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and experience the mental health benefits of acupuncture therapy firsthand.
