Long-term stress is one of the main causes of some cardiovascular diseases. Swedish researchers who studied 130 000 individuals over the 27 years of their lives have found this out. Stress is now an almost daily part of our lives. The older we get, the more it piles up on us. Constant new life events and psychological traumas such as the death or illness of a loved one, natural disasters, world events, violence and others are all part of life. External events are hard to control, but we can be careful how we react to these situations. Adverse life events lead to an increased risk of serious diseases, especially cardiovascular disease, injuries, infections and certain autoimmune diseases. Long-term stress even shortens life, so it is necessary to learn how to deal with it properly.
Stress-related disorders are classified as psychiatric disorders. One of the diagnostic criteria is the presence of a previous stressful life event. Depending on the type of stressor, the symptoms reported and their duration, these disorders are categorised:
The presence of a life-threatening traumatic event is required for the first two disorders to occur. However, adjustment disorder refers to physical or psychological difficulties, so- called adjustment syndromes, that are triggered by an identifiable and significant life change. PTSD is the most severe and widespread form of stress-related disorder. It is characterized by re-experiencing, avoidance, negative cognitions and mood after a traumatic event. Persons with post-traumatic stress disorder have an increased incidence of cardiovascular disease.
Stress and psychosomatic effects on general health and specific organs is still an understudied area. However, results from existing studies so far support the assumptions that the relationship between mental health and well-being is a major determinant of physical health. If you want to maintain your health, try the unique NoPainOffice program. With short videos, exercises and tips, you can get started with a healthy lifestyle today. All you need is a little commitment and the bare minimum of time.
