Stress Awareness Month: Identifying and Managing Stress for Better Health

April is Stress Awareness Month, a reminder of how stress can impact physical and mental health. While stress is a natural response to life's demands, chronic stress can wreak havoc on the body, leading to conditions like:

- Cardiovascular disease

- Anxiety disorders

- Weakened immune system

- Sleep disruptions

Communities of color are often under higher levels of stress due to structural inequalities, financial insecurity, and experiences of discrimination.

Stress Reduction Tips:

- Mindfulness practices (e.g., meditation, yoga, deep breathing) can help lower cortisol and improve mental clarity.

- Exercise is a great way to release built-up tension and improve mood.

- Social support: Surrounding yourself with understanding friends and family can buffer the effects of stress.

Your LivingScript: Pick a tip and see how it helps you to chill!

Talk to Dr. J