How does stress develop into an addiction

When it comes to stress and addiction, many research studies have successfully established a link between these concepts. No person is immune to stress, hence, we try to cope with it in our unique ways.

Some people rely on substances or some activities to help bring down their stress levels. While doing this proves to be effective, it is only short-lived, as they need more of these substances or activities to keep their stress levels low.

With time, a dependency develops which leads to addiction. Someone experiencing chronic stress has their physical and mental health at risk, especially if it goes on for a long time.

Stress can impair the normal functioning of every system and organ in the body.

It is more likely for someone suffering from chronic stress to rely on substances so that they can keep managing it.

With reference to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, using substances like alcohol or drugs will only affect your ability to manage stress.

Using these substances for a long time affects the part of the brain that is responsible for pleasure, motivation, impulse control, behavior, etc.

In the long run, the changes in the brain will make it difficult for the individual to stop using these substances.

So, even if there are negative consequences that come with these substances’ use, they do not mind.

These individuals will also experience unpleasant withdrawal symptoms when they try to cut off these substances without any medical intervention or professional help. They end up going back to alcohol or drug use.

It is important to learn how to manage stress in healthy ways to keep your body and mind in great shape.

Some of the health tips you can apply are practicing habits like exercising, eating a nutritious diet, seeking help from people, etc.

If you are struggling with addiction, consider seeking assistance from a professional to become sober again.


4 signs that you badly need a vacation for your mental health

If you are having a mental health challenge, one of the ways to relieve yourself of some of the symptoms is to go on a vacation.

Many people live stressed-filled lives, and they barely get the chance to take care of themselves. The unavailability of self-care can cause harm to both physical and mental health.

Here are some of the signs that you really need a vacation  

Mental health illness symptoms

When you notice that you are feeling signs of anxiety and depression, it is a signal that you need to take a break. You might be trying to handle more than what is on your plate, and it may affect you in the long run.

Going on a vacation helps you to relieve stress and it provides you with calm feelings, which puts your body in a relaxed state. A vacation is one of the best options to leverage if you want your body and mind to heal from potential mental health problems.

Withdrawal from activities and friends

Another way to know that you need a vacation for your mental health is when you don’t find interest in staying around friends or doing your regular activities. You will notice that you prefer to be alone and just to keep to yourself.

When you observe that this has been ongoing for a while, it is a sign of mental health deterioration and you need a vacation.

Low energy levels

Sometimes when your energy levels are low, it might be that you need a break, and vacation might be the ideal option. Taking time out to go on vacation helps to keep you rejuvenated.

Inability to concentrate

When you discover that you are finding it difficult to concentrate on work and other activities, you probably need a break. With a well-planned vacation, you can get your mental health back on track.