Everyone goes through stressful episodes in life, from exams to moving home or starting a new job. Some people thrive on pressure and it brings out the best in them. However, when the source of stress is not temporary or cannot be escaped from, it can take a serious toll on mental and physical health.
Stress obviously affects people regardless of gender, but men often carry the burden silently rather than seek the help and support that they need. Here’s a look at how stress affects men’s health and some tips for managing it.
The physical impact of stress
Sexual function
Men who suffer from chronic stress are more prone to having a lower libido and experiencing problems such as erectile dysfunction (ED). This is the inability to get or maintain an erection long enough for a satisfactory sexual experience.
Stress and related conditions such as depression and anxiety can interfere with the brain’s signalling to the body, including response to sexual stimulation. ED that does not improve even after a stressful episode has passed should be investigated by a doctor, because there may be a related physical cause such as high blood pressure or heart disease.
If underlying causes are ruled out or treated, the doctor may also recommend an oral ED medication such as sildenafil, which is cheap to buy online as sildenafil.
Heart conditions
Stress triggers the release of adrenaline and cortisol, which make the blood pressure rise and heart beat faster to prepare the body for the ‘fight or flight’ response. Chronic stress means that blood pressure and heart rate may be slower to return to normal, increasing the pressure on the heart.
Stress also increases the likelihood of unhealthy behaviours that further impact heart health, including smoking, drinking to excess, and overeating.
Sleep disruption
Stress can disrupt sleep patterns, making it difficult to drop off or to stay asleep for very long. This can interfere with hormone regulation, lower immunity, and lead to fatigue. Poor sleep also makes mental health issues worse, causing low mood and making stress and anxiety worse.
Testosterone production
Stress can hamper testosterone production, the hormone responsible for the male sex drive. This can mean that libido drops, along with energy levels and muscle mass. It can also cause mood swings and fatigue.
Weight gain
Elevated levels of cortisol can cause the body to store more fat around the abdomen, and this can also break down muscle tissue. Weight gain further impacts physical health, and can also affect confidence and lead to lower self esteem.
What causes stress?
Stress can have a huge number of causes, and we are all different: some people take it in their stride and seem to thrive under constant pressure, while others respond differently. Often, there’s no one big cause but the cumulative effect of a constant drip drip of problems.
These could be around finances, career, relationships, housing, loneliness, major life events such as bereavement or divorce, or other health issues.
How can stress be managed?
Staying active
Exercise helps to combat stress by triggering the release of endorphins, which make us feel more positive. Getting outdoors in the fresh air and exercising with friends is particularly beneficial.
Limiting alcohol intake
Alcohol may provide a temporary release from the source of stress, but in the long run it intensifies negative emotions and depresses the nervous system, making stress harder to manage.
Lifestyle changes
Simple changes such as eating a blanched diet and making time for hobbies and socialising can help to keep stress levels at bay. Meditating, deep breathing or yoga can also be beneficial.
When to get help
If stress becomes too much or you are reaching a crisis point, it’s essential to reach out for help. See your doctor or open up to someone close about the way you are feeling. The doctor may refer you for a talking treatment such as cognitive behavioural therapy, or prescribe medication.
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