We’ve all felt it—the quickened heartbeat, the rush of adrenaline, the tightness in our chest. Stress is a universal experience, but did you know it can actually be a good thing? Not all stress is bad. In fact, it can be a valuable tool in our daily lives when managed properly. In lifestyle medicine, understanding the nuances between good and bad stress is crucial for promoting overall well-being.
Ever notice how a looming deadline can push you to focus and get things done? That’s good stress, also known as eustress. It’s the type of stress that motivates you to rise to the occasion, sharpen your skills, and accomplish tasks. Whether preparing for a presentation, training for a marathon, or planning a big event, eustress provides the energy boost needed to meet challenges head-on. Good stress keeps life exciting and engaging, encouraging us to step out of our comfort zones and grow. Without it, life would lack the zest and purpose that come from setting and achieving goals.
On the other hand, distress is the not-so-friendly type of stress that can take a toll on our health. Unlike eustress, which is short-lived and motivational, distress lingers and overwhelms us. Chronic stress from ongoing issues like financial troubles, work-related burnout, or strained relationships can lead to a host of health problems, including anxiety, depression, and even chronic physical conditions like hypertension. As Jake Veigel, MD, an expert in lifestyle medicine, puts it, "Chronic stress not only impacts your physical health but can significantly affect your mental well-being. It can lead to a constant state of tension and anxiety, making it difficult to enjoy life’s moments."
Lifestyle medicine offers a holistic and practical approach to managing distress by focusing on adopting healthy habits that can significantly reduce the impact of chronic stress. Key aspects include nutrition, with an emphasis on whole foods to stabilize mood and energy levels; physical activity, which releases endorphins and reduces cortisol; and restorative sleep, as quality rest is vital for emotional regulation and coping with stress. Additionally, maintaining strong social connections provides essential emotional support, alleviating feelings of isolation.
By using these practices, lifestyle medicine not only helps reduce bad stress but also uses the benefits of good stress. It supports a healthier and more satisfying life by encouraging us to face challenges and grow. As Dr. Veigel puts it, "It's not just about staying healthy; it's about living a life where we can thrive. Good stress can push us forward, and lifestyle medicine helps us handle the bad stress that can hold us back."