Did you know…

• More than 19 million people are affected by depression, approximately 12 million women, most frequently between the ages of 25-44*
• Roughly 40 million adults are struggling with an anxiety disorder.*
• Research suggests that roughly 1 in 5 adolescents suffers from depression.*
• Girl’s dissatisfaction with their body image and appearance often begins in childhood and is triggered by the media, family and friends.*
• It is estimated that 10-15% of all new mothers experience post-partum depression.*

*According to the National Institute of Mental Health and the Mental Health Association of America.

Stress and our Health

Recent research conducted at several prominent universities confirms the suspicion that the stress we experience affects both our physical and mental wellbeing. Chronic stress weakens the heart, creating conditions that may lead to heart disease and sudden death. The body’s reaction to stress also sets the stage for tension headaches, neck, back and shoulder pain and migraines. Moreover, stress has shown to exacerbate already annoying skin conditions, such as acne, psoriasis and rosacea. Stress also lowers the body’s immune system, making it less able to fight off infections, viruses and disease.

What does this mean? While we cannot remove stress from our life, we CAN learn more effective ways to cope with stress. Examine your professional life, as well as your commitment to your job. How can you benefit from setting limits, improving organizational skills or just learning to “leave work at the office”?

The relationships we have with our loved ones and friends can be sources of support and stress. We can achieve balance and resolve by exploring our relationship patterns, developing assertiveness skills and confronting issues that may be contributing to our relationship stress. Begin to express your needs and utilize reflective listening skills during conversations.

Lastly, learning to take time for yourself is the key to effective stress management. Finding activities, hobbies and other outlets for creative and physical expression are essential to reducing stress. Relaxation techniques are also of great benefit.

*Adapted from Studies conducted at UC San Francisco and Carnegie Mellon University