April is ‘Stress Awareness Month’ and this is a good ‘Awareness’ emphasis to share with victims of domestic violence since abuse of any kind is one of the adverse life experiences that can lead to stress. Stress – particularly stress caused by domestic violence – can lead to serious physical and mental health issues on victims. Victims of domestic violence can deal with a type of stress that is ongoing and very damaging – toxic or chronic stress.
Stress is a normal part of dealing with everyday life and its demands and circumstances. It is usually temporary and works itself out on its own. But toxic stress is frequent, chronic stress that doesn’t go away. This type of stress has harmful effects on a person’s mental and physical health.
Ever heard of the term ‘fight or flight’? It’s when the body is faced with threats, problems, or situations that cause fear, worry, or anxiety. The body releases hormones to give a burst of energy to deal with the crisis. In toxic stress, the body is on a constant state of ‘alert’ and these ‘fight or flight’ responses can open your mind and body up to chronic illness.
What are some signs that you may be dealing with toxic stress?
* Feeling anxious all the time.
* Feeling overwhelmed with life.
* Headaches.
* Unable to focus.
* Unable to remember things.
* Mind racing.
* Heart racing.
* Increasing blood pressure.
* Nightmares and not sleeping well.
* Emotional and having mood swings.
* Stomach and intestinal issues.
* Depression.
* Increased use of alcohol or drugs.
* Wanting to isolate and withdraw.
Other than domestic abuse, what other things can cause toxic stress?
* Natural disasters. (A worldwide pandemic would qualify.)
* Being a crime victim.
* Losing your job.
* A failing business.
* Death of a friend or loved one.
* Divorce or separation.
* Illness or accident.
* Anything else that personally causes you trauma or distress.
Toxic or chronic stress can cause long-term effects in your body and mind, such as:
* Higher risk of substance abuse.
* Higher risk of domestic abuse.
* Higher risk of chronic physical illness.
* Higher rates of mental illness and depression.
* Compromised immune system.
* Increased risk of heart disease.
* Increased risk of developing asthma.
* Increased risk of developing auto-immune disease.
There is help available. If you are a victim of domestic violence, we can help you break free of that toxic cycle of abuse. Call 1-888-554-2501, anytime, day or night to talk to one of our advocates. Seek medical advice from your doctor and ask about possible counseling options to help you work through any mental health issues that you may be facing. Your physical and mental health is precious. Do what it takes to break the cycle of toxic stress in you life.
https://med.fsu.edu/childStress/whatis
https://www.choosingtherapy.com/toxic-stress/
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