Making Connections Between Stress And Depression
Stress has a profoundly negative effect on the body over time. It is often referred to as the ‘silent killer’ because of compound debilitating effects that stress can cause in the body. Long term, unresolved stress can also lead to depression, and its effect is seen 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.
Numerous scientific studies have linked high levels of stress to depression. When an individual experiences multiple stressors in multiple areas of their life they are more likely to develop depression than an individual dealing with one stressor, say a job. Multiple stressors in an individual with inadequate or undeveloped coping mechanisms can easily trigger depression.
Another factor in depression is change. Nobody much likes change, but some people simply can’t handle a number of changes in their life, especially over a short period of time. Individuals like this are likely to develop depression. What may seem a common change to some, often becomes the ‘straw the broke the camel’s back’ for others. For example: job chance, financial challenges, death, births, divorce, and unexpected tragedy can combine and create an insurmountable challenge for some individual’s 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.
Individuals who learn how to manage stress experience less incidences of depression. There is a proven link between stress and depression, but proactive lifestyle changes and habits can reduce the negative effects that stress has on the mind and body, including the tendency for depression.