For additional information on the physical and psychological effects of stress as well as stress management recommendations, consult a mental health professional.

Some short-term stress is positive and causes the body to release adrenaline, which can help people to accomplish tasks and enhance problem-solving ability, according to the American Psychological Association. However, chronic stress—stress that is experienced over an extended period of time—is generally negative due to the ongoing release of adrenaline and can contribute to signifi cant health problems and diseases. Fortunately, there are techniques that can help many people to effectively manage stress and decrease their risk of developing negative health consequences from the condition.

The Physical and Psychological Effects of StressWhile short-term stress can provide motivation and may serve as a positive force, chronic, long-term stress can take a toll on physical health. Stress can lead to prolonged muscle tension; anxiety; insomnia; headache and migraine; increased risk for high blood pressure; heart attack, and stroke; gastrointestinal problems including ulcers, vomiting and diarrhea; and other conditions.

Stress Management TechniquesFortunately, there are healthy ways to manage stress. Consider the following recommendations from the American Psychological Association.

Make time every day to take part in enjoyable activities. Rest your mind. To help ensure you get the recommended amount of sleep, cut back on caffeine, remove distractions such as television from your bedroom, and go to bed at the same time every night.

Identify causes of stress. Set realistic expectations for yourself, limit commitments, and eliminate non-essential tasks.

Get help. If you continue to feel overwhelmed, seek help from a mental health professional who can help to identify triggers and to develop a management plan.

Build strong relationships. Reach out to family members and close friends who might be able to offer support and practical assistance, as well as a fresh perspective.

Eat a healthy diet. Thirty-eight percent of adults say they have overeaten or eaten unhealthy foods in the past month because of stress.

Get some exercise. Exercise increases endorphins, which serve as the body’s natural mood booster. A daily walk or other form of exercise can help with stress reduction.

Fight Back

Against Stress Fight Back

Against Stress

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DEC. 2015 ISSUEPost this side the week of:

Nov. 23-27

Regular exercise promotes physical health and well-being and generates positive psychological benefits as well. By becoming moderately active on a regular basis, sedentary individuals can improve their mental health as well as reduce their risk of developing certain diseases. Research indicates that exercise can help to relieve symptoms of depression and anxiety, as well as contributing to a sense of well-being.

El ejercicio regular promueve la salud física y bienestar y también genera beneficios positivos psicológicos. Cuando empiezan a estar activas con moderación a base regular, las personas sedentarias pueden mejorar su salud mental, así como reducir el riesgo de desarrollar ciertas enfermedades. Las investigaciones indican que el ejercicio puede ayudar a aliviar los síntomas de depresión y ansiedad, así como contribuir a una sensación de bienestar.

For more information, call St. Jude Heritage Medical Group at (800) 627-8106 or visit www.SJHMG.com, or you may call St. Jude Medical Center at (877) 459-3627.

Para más información, llame a St. Jude Heritage Medical Group al (800) 627-8106 o vaya en www.SJHMG.com, o llame a St. Jude Medical Center al (877) 459-3627.

CAJUDE 303Exercise and Psychological Benefits: A Healthy Link this Holiday Season

El Ejercicio y los Beneficios Psicológicos: Una Conexión Saludable estas Fiestas