Stress is a normal reaction of the human body. In principle, any situation can trigger stress. The body then releases stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol, which briefly enable us to perform at our physical and mental peak. However, if stress is a constant companion, it can quickly become a serious problem.
Below you will find further information as well as a selection of specialists in stress-related conditions.
In everyday life, we are exposed to many environmental stimuli. Some of these trigger a reaction in the body: stress. So-called stressors—that is, triggering factors—can include, for example:
In response to this sensory overload, our body releases stress hormones. These hormones release energy in the brain and muscles. This drives the body to perform at its peak so it can withstand the stressors and better cope with the strain.
The WHO (World Health Organization) has declared stress and exhaustion to be the greatest health threat of the 21st century. In today’s world, there are many factors that affect not only adults but also children, such as:
Everyone reacts differently to these stimuli. Huge piles of paperwork on a desk can trigger a racing heart and panic attacks in one person, while another remains largely unfazed. School expectations cause headaches and stomachaches in one student, while another remains relatively calm.
Therefore, we distinguish between two different types of stress:
In today’s world, psychosocial stressors account for the largest share of triggers for distress. These include, among others:
Over the past decade, the number of days employees have been absent from work has risen by nearly 80 percent. This is due to the increasing prevalence of mental health conditions. These are likely caused by a hectic work environment and workflow, as well as the associated high pressure to perform.
Depression and burnout syndrome are particularly common stress reactions. Burnout is a state of physical and emotional exhaustion.
Constant high pressure to perform without periods of rest, combined with ongoing environmental sensory overload, causes stress for most people. Chronic stress always has negative effects on the body. These effects are not always immediately noticeable at first. Everyone may react to stress with different physical symptoms.
Typical stress reactions vary among children, adolescents, and adults:
Psychological effects:
Physical effects:
Ages 1 to 5:
Ages 5 to 11:
Ages 11 to 14:
Ages 14 to 18:
None of these warning signs should be ignored: Negative stress places a heavy burden on the body, to which the immune system reacts very sensitively. Many people who are chronically stressed suffer from recurring infections. So anyone who fails to address stress in a timely manner risks developing more serious illnesses.
Managing and preventing stress is of the utmost importance for your well-being. These two tips will help you reduce stress:
Tip 1: You usually have no direct control over the biggest stress triggers—work or school demands. However, you do have control over how you handle your tasks and react to them. People tend to put unnecessary pressure on themselves. This also means more stress for the body.
If you catch yourself having stress-inducing thoughts, pause for a moment, take a deep breath, and tell yourself to stay calm. Such positive and empowering self-talk is extremely helpful for managing or avoiding stress.
Tip 2: Your attitude toward time is also important, especially when it comes to breaks, waiting periods, and delays. Breaks and waiting periods aren’t simply times of inactivity. They’re important for you and your mental well-being. So view them as welcome opportunities to recharge your batteries and relax for a short while.
In addition to avoiding the causes of stress, you can, of course, also turn to various relaxation techniques.
Highly effective ways to reduce daily stress include
These all fall under the category of active relaxation. Only this type of relaxation is suitable for managing stress.
Passive relaxation, such as lying on the couch and watching TV, is not suitable for physical and mental relaxation. You can get help finding a relaxation program that’s right for you from your family doctor or your health insurance provider.
Stress itself cannot be prevented or reduced by medication. However, some products can help you regain your inner balance more easily and relax. They consist primarily of natural active ingredients and are therefore available over the counter.
All remedies that provide relief from stress and exhaustion are formulated according to the principles of anthroposophic medicine. They are designed to holistically stimulate the body’s self-healing powers. The specially processed metals they contain, such as gold, and minerals (e.g., Ferrum-Quarz) have a harmonizing effect on the entire body.
Various formulations also alleviate
You can consult a pharmacist to determine which remedies are right for you.
In addition, natural medicinal plants such as
have calming, sleep-promoting, or mood-lifting properties. They are said to be particularly helpful for mild depression and sleep disorders. Remedies containing taiga root or ginseng can also have a balancing and harmonizing effect on your body.
Finally, relaxing tea blends and warm baths with added hay flowers or lavender also promote inner relaxation.
Simply try out which of these medicinal plants have a positive effect on your relaxation.
You should strive to find a balance to your stressful daily life that helps relieve your tension. If you work alone during the day, seek out the company of friends in the evening. If you’re primarily there for others in your daily life, don’t forget about yourself. Make sure to include plenty of so-called “positive factors” in your life, such as
If you’re under constant stress and can’t find a way to relax on your own, you should consider seeing a doctor. Otherwise, secondary health problems may develop.
If you’re already suffering from stress-related conditions such as
a visit to your family doctor is essential. He or she will help you find a suitable stress-management program or a psychotherapist.
