Stress
We all find different things stressful and experience different
symptoms of stress. While we all crave a stress-free life, a degree
of stress is necessary to keep us motivated and
enthusiastic. Getting the balance right helps us lead a healthy,
active lifestyle and cope with stress in a positive way.
How does stress affect the heart?
Stress is not a direct risk factor for cardiovascular disease, but
it’s possible that stress may contribute to it depending on your
coping mechanism for stress. Some people cope with stress with
destructive behaviour – such as smoking, drinking too much
alcohol and overeating.
These increase your risk of cardiovascular disease.
There is no evidence to suggest that stress causes coronary
heart disease or heart
attacks, but if you have coronary heart disease and
experience feelings of anxiety or are under lots of stress, it may
bring on symptoms like angina.
What you can do
Changing your lifestyle in a positive way can help you feel
physically fitter and better able to cope with some of the demands
put on you. A balanced
diet and regular physical activity will help you
cope with stress.
If you often feel stressed or anxious, it is important to learn
how to relax. Some people find that physical activity, yoga or
other relaxation techniques can help. You could make a list of
things that help you to relax and schedule one every day.
There is plenty that you can do to manage stress or anxiety. You
may need to identify situations that make you feel stressed at home
or at work and try to avoid them if you can.
You may find it helpful to learn about techniques for managing
stress. If you think you are stressed or very anxious, talk to your
GP who will be able to help you decide on the best way to deal with
it.
More information
For help with the ways you deal with stress, read our booklet
Stress and your heart.
Other organisations:
Stress in the
workplace
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