Women’s lives are stressful. Juggling work, home, relationships, parents and children, women feel the emotional, physical and mental effects of big and small events. The physicians at Athens ObGyn make it a point to talk with patients about their mental health and stress levels during well-woman exams. Teaching women about stress management and techniques for managing stress is part of the preventive care our physicians provide.
Everyone has periodic stress, but when stress becomes chronic, women’s physical and mental health suffers. Chronic, untreated stress can lead to serious problems, such as heart disease, depression or weakened immune systems. Untreated anxiety and stress also contribute to many women’s health issues.
Stress management begins with awareness. Women need to journal or spend time reflecting on what is causing their chronic stress. Once women find the cause of their stress, they can try to set limits or say no to cut down on heavy personal responsibilities or workloads. Our physicians also recommend several other techniques for managing stress.
Sometimes stress management techniques alone won’t help with the level of stress or the problems that chronic stress creates. Women who experience any of the following issues should get professional help.
The physicians at Athens ObGyn are here to lend a compassionate, professional ear to women with stress issues. Contact us for an appointment.