Making Connections Between Stress And Depression
Stress has been called the ’silent killer’ because of its negative effects on the body over time. Another subtle negative side effect of increased, long term stress is depression, which affects millions of people all over the world.
It is important to remember that stress is a normal response to a variety of regular stimuli in our environment. The right amount of stress keeps us alert and allows us to act and react for our own safety. Stress becomes a problem when it is long lasting and the individual experiencing stress is not equipped to cope with it.
Over the past few years, scientific studies have shown that individuals experiencing high levels of stress often also end up with depression. When compound stressors hit an individual all at once, or over a short period of time, and they are not equipped with proper coping mechanisms to handle stress depression is the likely result.
Rapid or drastic changes in a short period of time can also contribute to depression. Life changes such as births, deaths, job loss, and financial instability are difficult to handle one at a time. When they compound, all at once, on one individual the result can be stress overload. This takes a toll on the body.
When stress becomes too much to bear, individuals may feel their mind and body begin to shut down. It is as if they are closing themselves away from the stressors, which, of course, do not go away. These individuals become lethargic and tired. Just getting through the day can present huge challenges. In their eyes, daily tasks can seem almost insurmountable.
There is hopeful news. People who learn how to correctly and effectively cope with stress experience less incidences of depression during their lifetime. There remains a proven link between stress and depression, but proactive lifestyle changes and habits can mitigate the overwhelming negative effects which stress can place on the body and mind.