Worried about a big presentation, mounting bills, a family illness, or an upcoming event? Stress is a universal, normal response to obstacles in life. In some cases it’s even beneficial because stress tells our bodies it’s time to respond; however, leaving stress unmanaged can be detrimental, leading to negative emotional and physical consequences. Clues that you are under stress may include being irritable, having difficulty concentrating, excessive worry or moodiness. Physical symptoms can include headaches, increased heart rate, tension or pain. Stress can lead to negative consequences for our physical, social, occupational, recreational and financial health. It can cause people to withdraw from outings, experience prolonged difficulty sleeping, or be unable to cope with emotions after the end of a relationship. How can you determine if the stress you are experiencing is adversely affecting your health? It comes down to the urgency of the stressor, the duration of the symptoms, and the severity and lasting impacts the stressor or situation creates. For instance, low-level stress is typically beneficial and ignites us to take action and achieve goals. The stressor is typically short-term, realistic and attainable. Stress can be harmful, however, when the level of the stressors escalates, consequences become more severe, or symptoms become long-lasting. Identifying stressors and understanding our thoughts and reactions to them are important steps in managing stress. When stress moves beyond a healthy level, you may benefit from speaking to a licensed mental health therapist to help recognize, address and manage reactions to stressors. Read the full article by Jorge Caraballo here, HUSK Mental Health Therapist, MS, LCMHC, NCC