Stress And The 10 Truths Behind The Damage It Causes

Mood Swings

Stress causes mood changes such as irritability, anxiety, depression, and anger, which can have an adverse impact on personal and professional relationships. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, stress disrupts serotonin levels, which is known as the “feel-good” hormone responsible for causing feelings of happiness. People who are stress often feel helpless, overwhelmed and out of control. Stress management training has been shown to reduce the effects of stress on the body. Exercise and meditation are also helpful.

Addiction

Stress may cause behavioral changes that lead to addiction as a coping mechanism. People with chronic stress may turn to alcoholism, drug use, or food addictions to temporarily raise their serotonin and dopamine levels. Elevated hormonal levels will soon run out, leaving the person feeling worse than before and craving a new way to feel good again. Stress may cause an increase in addictions such as gambling, watching television, and playing video games instead of dealing with stress in a healthy manner.