It is normal to feel stressed following an illness or operation. In small doses it can be a great motivator and help us to recover. In high doses it can overload our system and make us unwell.

Stress affects us all in different ways, with the elderly more likely to be effected. The way our bodies react to stress follows a three phase process,

• a shock phase where we first  change and alter our normal way of life,
• an adaptation phase where we adapt to the changes, and if this is difficult
• an exhaustion phase where our bodies cannot adapt to the changes imposed leading to fatigue and in some cases a reduction in our immunity.

Over time if the stress persists, hormones are released that costrict the blood vessels and make the heart work harder. This can take its toll on the body and cardiovascular problems can arise such as high blood pressure.

One of the best ways to reduce stress is to exercise. Just by taking a small walk every day can help and is a good beginning. Other ways to improve stress are:

• healthy diet rich in fruit and vegetables
• reading and quiet time alone
• meditation
• yoga
• breathing exercises
• talking over with issues with someone you trust

If none of these things help, discuss your issues with your doctor. Organisations such as Beyond Blue or lifeline are also helpful. See the links page for contact details. Sometimes medication is necessary to help deal with lifes stressors, but no matter what approach you take, its important to try and break the cycle before it has a chance to effect you too much.