Stress

Stress plays a vital role in our daily lives, motivating us to get out of bed in the morning and tackle the day’s challenges. There is such a thing as good stress—when external stimuli trigger internal responses that prepare our bodies for action. For example, exposure to morning sunlight initiates a series of biological reactions that get us ready for the day ahead, helping to regulate our stress levels.

However, problems arise when this resolution doesn't occur. Bad stress happens when external or internal stimuli continuously build without relief. This type of chronic stress is a common feature of modern life. Unlike our ancestors, who evolved to hunt, gather, and rest, we face constant, diverse stimuli that don’t align with our evolutionary stress responses.

Modern life demands that we constantly compete, move, achieve, protect, and acquire, often without any clear resolution. These relentless demands can keep our bodies in a state of hyperarousal for years, leading to chronic stress and anxiety.

Many modern illnesses are impacted and amplified by stress. Therapy can help identify and manage stress by recognising its symptoms, understanding its causes, and planning effective strategies for relief. At Integrative Psychology & Medicine, we are here to support you in navigating stress, helping you find balance and achieve a healthier, more fulfilling life.