Stress Awareness Month: How Stress Impacts a Woman’s Health

As April is Stress Awareness Month, Hati Health is running a series focusing on exploring what stress really is, how it affects a woman's health and how to manage it more effectively. Discover more about how Hati Health may help through access to resources and experts.

If you need to speak to someone about what you are feeling, book a session with one of our trusted therapists.

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In this article, we will explore how chronic stress profoundly impacts a woman's mental, emotional, and physical well-being, underscoring the importance of effective stress management strategies.

For decades, psychologists and health experts have delved into the study of stress, offering guidance on how to navigate it positively. At All About Women, our primary aim is to raise awareness among our patients regarding their stress levels and its repercussions on their health.

The origins of stress awareness trace back to the 1970s, initially centered on workplace stress, as approximately 60% of individuals reported stress in this domain. Over time, awareness expanded to encompass stress experienced across various contexts and situations, leading to the declaration of April as Stress Awareness Month in 1992.

Statistics in the Philippines reveal that 44% of individuals experience daily stress, with a significant portion attributing it to work-related factors. Furthermore, women tend to be more susceptible to the effects of stress compared to men.

Chronic Stress has long-term impact on women's health:

Here are five prevalent health issues in women exacerbated by chronic stress:

1. Elevated Blood Pressure: Prolonged stress can escalate heart rate and blood pressure, heightening the risk of cardiovascular ailments, particularly in individuals with a family history of heart disease.
2. Mental Health Disorders: Stress significantly contributes to the prevalence of anxiety and depression, particularly notable during the pandemic. Women, in particular, are prone to experiencing panic attacks, PTSD, suicidal thoughts, and OCD.
3. Headaches and Migraines: Many women experience regular headaches or migraines due to heightened stress levels, often accompanied by muscle tension in the neck and shoulders.
4. Digestive Problems: Stress commonly manifests in stomach and digestive issues, ranging from temporary discomfort to conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
5. Menstrual Irregularities and Fertility Challenges: Hormonal imbalances induced by stress can disrupt menstrual cycles. Potentially women who are stressed about conception, eventually impacting fertility.

If you’re experiencing chronic stress levels that are affecting your life and health, talk to a trusted professional or therapist right away. Stress doesn’t have to control your life. Make an appointment with one of our caring professionals at Hati Health today to discuss your options and answer any questions you may have.

Speak to an expert 

Hati Health is a digital platform for women, providing on-demand access to products and services, including telehealth, symptom checking, holistic wellness plans and education.

We believe that being able to talk openly about women's healthcare and bringing appropriate solutions will inspire women to achieve their fullest potential in their personal and professional lives.