Stress at work linked to increased risk of heart disease

Stress results from our brain’s response to a demand but the degree of the response varies in individuals. Unfortunately, our bodies do not differentiate between routine stresses brought about by daily responsibilities, stress due to sudden change and traumatic stress brought about by a major event like assault or natural disaster.

Previous studies demonstrate that chronic stress at work, or in any environment, affects sleep patterns, weakens our immunity, increases susceptibility to illnesses, and plays a major role in chronic health problems like high blood pressure, depression, heart disease and cancer.

“Battling stress may require you to rethink your calendar and your priorities in 2017,” said David Burton, civic communication specialist with University of Missouri Extension. “I’ve made changes this year and I’ve lost 36 pounds and reduced some of my stress. I’m feeling better as a result and I’m making better decisions too.”

Burton offers the following tips for reducing job-related stress.

• Schedule breaks and use them to relax (take a 10 minute walk to rest, journal or meditate).

• Work with your supervisor to reduce environment-related stress.

• Use relaxation techniques such as breathing and progressive muscle relaxation.

• Make physical activity part of your daily routine. Exercise is a powerful antidote for stress fatigue. Physical activity naturally boosts energy and lifts moods.

• Eat enough of the right foods to optimize energy and reduce fatigue and increase efficiency at work hence stress reduction.

Nutrition information is available online http://extension.missouri.edu.