Chronic Stress

Stress affects everyone and is a normal response to life demands. There are different types of stress, all of which, when chronic (on-going) can increase the risk of experiencing mental and physical health issues. Stress can also be self-perpetuating due to its impacts on performance and cognitive ability.

Examples of stress include:

• Routine stress related to the pressures of daily life such as the demands of employment, family, and other daily responsibilities.
• Stress brought about by sudden change, such as loss of, or change in employment, or illness. Even some of the more joyful life events, such as marriage or welcoming a new child can be significant stressors.
• Traumatic stress experienced in an event like a major accident, physical or sexual abuse, or a natural disaster.

Chronic stress, often called ‘burnout’, can be harmful to mental and physical health.

Health problems can occur if the stress response goes on for too long or becomes chronic, such as when the source of stress is constant, or if the stress response continues after the danger or threat has subsided. Routine stress may be the hardest type of stress to notice at first, and due to it often being constant the body gets no clear signal to return to normal functioning. Over time, the continued strain on the body from routine stress, may contribute to a variety of health problems.

Common symptoms

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Digestive problems
• Headaches
• Sleep problems
• Difficulties in regulating emotional experience
• Memory and concentration problems
• Weight gain or loss

Undeniably, experiencing chronic stress can affect your physical health, mental health, and behaviour, impacting on quality of life. The Capri Sanctuary Programme is very effective in the recovery from and learning the skills to best manage stress in your life.

If you are concerned about the possibility of having a stress related, depressive or anxiety illness, and unsure of the extent of the problem and how to respond, take this simple and confidential checklist. This is not a diagnosis, however it can provide helpful advice as to what steps to take.