Did you know that our body actually responds to stressors from our environment? There are a lot of conversations happening around financial, job, and even relational stress, but it’s important to also take into consideration the effect that nature and the events that transpire within it, can have on our mental, physical, and emotional well-being.
In this blog, we will discuss the topic of environmental stress to gain a better understanding of what it is and how it impacts our life. We’ll look at the common signs of stress on our well-being, as well as some of the most common sources of environment-related stress.
Chronic stress, a designation of stress that extends over a prolonged period of time, can be extremely harmful to our health. Left unmanaged, environment-related stress can subject our minds and bodies to extended turmoil, resulting in very real consequences. We’ll take a look at these consequences.
Finally, we will look to the future and the benefits that come with managing our environmental stress. We’ll look at some proven stress management techniques that you can begin to utilize in your own life, to build optimism and hope for the future.
Defining Environment-Related Stress
Environmental stress is a specific form of stress which refers to the physical, chemical, and biological stressors that you experience, due to your surrounding environment. “Environment” is a broad designation that can include a number of stressors, including things such as natural disasters, pollution, climate change, and even factors like our surrounding noise and electromagnetic radiation.
The effect on our body from environmental stress can cause a range of physiological and psychological responses. These pressure points activate our sympathetic nervous system, resulting in changes in our heart rate and blood pressure, but it also affects our immune function.
In many instances, environmental stress can be good. It can keep us out of danger and tell us when we’re in a place that we shouldn’t be. We refer to these instances as acute stressors. Something happens, our system reacts, we adjust, and our body relaxes. However, without proper regulation, our response system can remain in a state of agitation, leading to a number of long-term issues.
10 Signs Of Environment-Related Stress
Environmental stress can manifest in a number of physical and psychological symptoms. Some of the physical signs of environmental stress include headaches, fatigue, digestive issues, muscle tension, and increased heart rate. Psychological symptoms can include anxiety, depression, irritability, mood swings, and difficulty concentrating.
Headaches
Headaches are a common symptom of environmental stress. Environmental stress can cause headaches due to the release of stress hormones and muscle tension. Stress hormones such as cortisol can cause blood vessels to constrict, leading to headaches.
Additionally, muscle tension in the neck and shoulders can cause tension headaches. Shapiro et al. (2016) found that exposure to environmental stressors such as noise, temperature, and air pollution was associated with an increased risk of headaches. (ref.)
Fatigue
Fatigue is another common symptom of environmental stress. Environmental stress can lead to fatigue due to disrupted sleep patterns and increased physiological arousal. Chronic exposure to environmental stressors can disrupt the natural sleep-wake cycle, leading to fatigue and daytime sleepiness.
Epel et al. (2018) found that chronic stress was associated with decreased sleep quality and duration, leading to increased levels of fatigue and decreased energy levels. (ref.)
Digestive Issues
Environmental stress can also cause digestive issues such as nausea, diarrhea, and constipation. Exposure to environmental stressors such as pollution, noise, and extreme temperatures can disrupt the balance of the gut microbiome, leading to digestive issues. Walker et al. (2021) found that environmental stressors were associated with an increased risk of digestive issues such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). (ref.)
Increased heart rate
Increased heart rate is another common symptom of environmental stress. Environmental stress can increase heart rate due to the activation of the sympathetic nervous system. The sympathetic nervous system is responsible for the body’s fight or flight response, leading to an increase in heart rate and blood pressure. Liang et al. (2019) found that exposure to environmental stressors such as air pollution and the noise was associated with an increased heart rate and risk of cardiovascular disease. (ref.)
Anxiety
Anxiety is a common psychological symptom of environmental stress. Environmental stress can cause anxiety due to increased levels of stress hormones and the perception of threat. Stress hormones such as cortisol can activate the amygdala, leading to increased anxiety and fear.
Selye (1956) proposed that chronic exposure to environmental stressors can lead to a state of chronic anxiety and “allostatic load,” which can have negative impacts on physical and mental health. (ref.)
Depression
Depression is a serious mental health condition that can be caused by environmental stress. Environmental stress can lead to depression due to chronic stress and inflammation. Chronic exposure to environmental stressors such as noise, pollution, and trauma can cause increased levels of inflammation, leading to changes in the brain and the development of depression. Miller et al. (2009) found that chronic stress was associated with increased levels of inflammation, which in turn was associated with depression. (ref.)
Respiratory Problems
Environmental stress can cause respiratory problems such as asthma and COPD. Exposure to environmental stressors such as pollution and secondhand smoke can cause inflammation in the lungs, leading to respiratory problems. Pope et al. (2002) found that exposure to particulate air pollution was associated with an increased risk of respiratory problems such as asthma and COPD. (ref.)
Skin Issues
Skin issues such as rashes and hives can also be caused by environmental stress. Exposure to environmental stressors such as pollution and UV radiation can cause inflammation and immune system dysregulation, leading to skin issues. Arck et al. (2013) found that chronic stress was associated with increased levels of inflammation and oxidative stress, which can lead to the development of skin issues such as eczema and psoriasis. (ref.)
Pain
Muscular tension and pain are common physical symptoms of environmental stress. Exposure to environmental stressors such as noise and work-related stress can cause increased muscle activity and inflammation, leading to muscular tension and pain. Hägg and Lundberg (2004) found that stress-related muscular tension was associated with increased levels of cortisol and activation of the sympathetic nervous system. (ref.)
Insomnia
Insomnia is a common sleep disorder that can be caused by environmental stress. Exposure to environmental stressors such as noise, temperature, and light can disrupt the natural sleep-wake cycle, leading to difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep. Morin et al. (2006) found that environmental stressors were associated with increased levels of insomnia and that stress management techniques were effective in improving sleep quality. (ref.)
As you can see, environmental stress can lead to a range of symptoms. Whether the signs you face are physical or psychological, they can present in a number of ways. Furthermore, prolonged exposure to environmental stressors can lead to even more severe health problems. It’s important to understand and keep an eye out for these signs, so you can begin to determine the source of environmental stress in your life.
10 Common Sources Of Environment-Related Stress
If you’re experiencing signs of environmental stress, then you likely have one or more sources in your life. While there are many things and events which can contribute to the stress that we are under, these can boil down to several main points of interest. Here are some of the most common sources of environmental stress:
Natural disasters: Natural disasters can obviously be quite alarming. These events include things such as hurricanes, tornadoes, and earthquakes. Natural disasters and even the worry of such things happening tend to produce a fair bit of environmental stress due to the threat they can pose to our physical safety and the safety of people and things around us that we care for.
Climate change: Climate change is a major environmental stressor that can cause physical, psychological, and social impacts. The anxiety about climate change can lead to long-term effects in individuals as well as communities. As our world changes around us, we can develop fear concerning our future.
Pollution: Exposure to air, water, and soil pollution can be very dangerous. Due to the risk of health impacts such as respiratory problems, cancer, and reproductive issues, our bodies can undergo a tremendous level of environmental stress.
Noise: Exposure to high levels of noise from sources such as traffic, construction, and industrial activity can cause environmental stress due to the risk of hearing damage, sleep disturbance, and psychological impacts such as anxiety and depression.
Crowding: Exposure to crowded living conditions or work environments can cause environmental stress due to the lack of privacy, personal space, and autonomy. For people who get claustrophobic easily, dense populations and spaces can be increasingly alarming.
Electromagnetic radiation: Phones, computers, and Wi-Fi can cause environmental stress due to the risk of health impacts such as headaches, fatigue, and cognitive impairment.
Work-related stress: Exposure to work-related stressors such as job insecurity, long hours, and workplace bullying can cause environmental stress due to the risk of physical and psychological health impacts.
Social stress: Exposure to social stressors such as discrimination, poverty, and social isolation can cause environmental stress due to the risk of psychological and social impacts on individuals and communities.
These common sources of stress can be found in all of our lives. For some, it might just be a singular environmental factor. At the other end of the spectrum, you may be looking at this list and thinking that a lot of it applies to you. Overall, it’s simply important to know that environmental stress sources are all around us. Learning to identify these sources, and how they are impacting you personally, is the next step in this journey to improving your mental and physical health.
15 Consequences Of Unmanaged Environment-Related Stress
As said before, chronic stress can have a severe impact on our lives. Sometimes we think it’s easier to just ignore the stress, to bottle it up in the hopes that when things eventually change, we’ll feel better. But this is a dangerous strategy and one that leaves you vulnerable to a whole host of things beyond your control.
Environment-related stress, left unmanaged, can have very real consequences on your mental and physical health. Let’s look at 15 of these consequences and how stress plays a factor in them:
1|Cardiovascular Disease: Prolonged exposure to environmental stressors, such as air pollution, noise pollution, and traffic, can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks and strokes. Research has shown that long-term exposure to air pollution is linked to a higher risk of heart disease and stroke. (Bhatnagar, 2017)
2| Respiratory Issues: Exposure to pollution and other environmental stressors can cause respiratory issues such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Studies have found that exposure to particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, and ozone, which are common air pollutants, is linked to an increased risk of respiratory diseases. (Bhatnagar, 2017)
3| Anxiety and Depression: Environmental stress can lead to anxiety and depression, which can have a significant impact on an individual’s quality of life. Studies have shown that exposure to natural disasters, traumatic events, and other environmental stressors can increase the risk of anxiety and depression. (Makwana, 2019)
4| Digestive Problems: Environmental stress can cause digestive problems such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and ulcers. Research has found that stress can lead to changes in gut bacteria, which can contribute to digestive issues. (Konturek et al., 2011)
5| Insomnia: Environmental stress can interfere with sleep, leading to insomnia and other sleep disorders. Studies have shown that exposure to noise pollution, such as traffic noise or construction noise, can disrupt sleep and lead to insomnia. (Halperin, 2014)
6| Cognitive Impairment: Prolonged exposure to environmental stressors, such as noise pollution and air pollution, can lead to cognitive impairment and memory problems. Research has found that exposure to traffic noise can impair cognitive function, including memory and attention. (Paul et al., 2019)
7| Headaches and Migraines: Exposure to environmental stressors such as noise and pollution can cause headaches and migraines. Studies have found that exposure to noise pollution, for example, can increase the risk of headaches and migraines. (Lee et al., 2018)
8| Skin Issues: Exposure to environmental stressors such as pollution can cause skin issues such as rashes and acne. Research has shown that air pollution can damage the skin, leading to premature aging, acne, and other skin conditions. (Andersen et al., 2021)
9| Weight Gain: Environmental stress can lead to weight gain and obesity by disrupting the body’s hormonal balance and metabolism. Research has found that chronic stress can increase levels of cortisol, a hormone that regulates metabolism, leading to weight gain and other metabolic disorders. (Kumar et al., 2019)
10| Substance Abuse: Individuals may turn to substance abuse as a way to cope with environmental stress. Research has found that exposure to environmental stressors, such as natural disasters, can increase the risk of substance abuse and addiction. (Khoury et al., 2010)
11| Lowered Immune System: Prolonged exposure to environmental stressors such as air pollution and noise pollution can weaken the immune system, making individuals more vulnerable to infections and illnesses. Studies have found that exposure to air pollution can suppress the immune system and increase the risk of respiratory infections. (Kivimäki, 2018)
12| Musculoskeletal Disorders: Environmental stress can cause musculoskeletal disorders such as back pain and tension headaches. Research has found that exposure to physical stressors such as repetitive motions or prolonged sitting can increase the risk of musculoskeletal disorders. (Green, 2008)
13| Reproductive Problems: Environmental stress can lead to reproductive problems such as infertility and menstrual irregularities. Studies have found that exposure to environmental toxins, such as pesticides and endocrine disruptors, can interfere with reproductive function. (Kumar et al., 2019)
14| Increased Risk of Cancer: Prolonged exposure to environmental stressors can increase the risk of cancer, especially lung cancer and skin cancer. Research has found that exposure to environmental toxins such as tobacco smoke, asbestos, and ultraviolet radiation can increase the risk of cancer. (Parsa, 2012)
15| Premature Aging: Environmental stress can accelerate the aging process, leading to premature wrinkles, gray hair, and other signs of aging. Studies have found that exposure to environmental stressors such as pollution and ultraviolet radiation can damage the skin and accelerate aging. (Vierkötter & Krutmann, 2012)
Stress is no joke, and certainly nothing to take lightly. Our bodies do a miraculous job under pressure, but we can’t forget that this pressure is meant to be regulated. Over long periods of time, environment-related stress will erode your well-being. Take the time to learn and spot the signs of environmental stress in your life. This way you will be better prepared to avoid any unnecessary consequences along the way.
8 Benefits Of Managing Environment-Related Stress
Now that we talked about the negatives, let’s look at the positive benefits that come with managing our stress, as seen by those who have taken the time to research this field:
1| Improved Physical Health
One of the primary benefits of managing environmental stress is improved physical health. Chronic stress has been linked to an increased risk of developing chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, respiratory issues, and obesity.
Studies have shown that managing environmental stress through various techniques such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, and regular exercise can reduce the risk of these chronic diseases. (Poulaki et al., 2021)
2| Improved Mental Health
Managing environmental stress can also have significant benefits for mental health. Chronic stress has been linked to an increased risk of developing anxiety and depression. However, studies have shown that managing environmental stress through techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, relaxation techniques, and regular exercise can improve mental health and reduce the risk of anxiety and depression. (Schneiderman et al., 2005)
3| Better Sleep
Better sleep is another benefit of managing environmental stress. Chronic stress can disrupt sleep patterns and lead to the development of sleep disorders such as insomnia. Studies have shown that managing environmental stress through techniques such as mindfulness meditation and regular exercise can improve sleep quality and reduce the risk of sleep disorders. (Bollu & Kaur, 2019)
4| Increased Energy
Finally, managing environmental stress can also lead to increased energy levels and reduced fatigue. Chronic stress can be draining and exhausting, but studies have shown that managing environmental stress through regular exercise, deep breathing exercises, and mindfulness meditation can increase energy levels and reduce feelings of fatigue. (Ma et al., 2017)
5| Improved Cognitive Function
Improved cognitive function is a well-known benefit of managing environmental stress. Chronic stress has been shown to negatively impact cognitive function and memory, but studies have shown that managing environmental stress through techniques such as mindfulness meditation, exercise, and cognitive-behavioral therapy can improve cognitive function and memory. (Hofmann & Gómez, 2017)
6| Better Relationships
Better relationships with friends, family, and coworkers is another benefit of managing environmental stress. Chronic stress can lead to irritability and mood swings, which can negatively impact relationships. However, studies have shown that managing environmental stress through techniques such as relaxation techniques, communication skills, and stress management training can improve relationships. (Koinis et al., 2015)
7| Increased Productivity
Increased productivity is another benefit of managing environmental stress. Chronic stress can lead to absenteeism and reduced productivity, but studies have shown that managing environmental stress through techniques such as regular exercise, mindfulness meditation, and time management skills can increase productivity and reduce absenteeism. (Janssen et al., 2018)
8| Better Coping Skills
Better coping skills and increased resilience is other benefits of managing environmental stress. Chronic stress can be overwhelming and lead to feelings of helplessness and hopelessness. However, studies have shown that managing environmental stress through techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, stress management training, and mindfulness meditation can improve coping skills and increase resilience. (Schneiderman et al., 2005)
Managing your stress is a no-brainer. Under stress, we face a myriad of consequences to our health and enjoyment. Simply by managing these stressors, however, we can experience hope and opportunity, along with these benefits. Make a plan and make a change today, by managing your environmental stress.
15 Tips Manage And Find Sources Of Environment-Related Stress
You know the sources that could be causing you undue pressure and strain, but how do you really nail down the perpetrators? Really, all it takes is a bit of digging to get to the root of these stress causes. Looking at your environment and how you interact with it will often give you enough direction to localize the problem. Here are fifteen tips to help you identify the sources of your environmental stress:
1| Keep a journal to track your stress levels and the sources of your stress.
Keeping a journal can be a useful tool for managing environmental stress. By tracking your stress levels and the sources of your stress, you can better understand what is causing you stress and take steps to manage it. Try to write down how you feel and what may have triggered your stress, including specific situations, people, or environments. This can help you identify patterns and develop strategies to manage your stress.
2| Identify situations and environments that trigger your stress.
Identifying situations and environments that trigger your stress is also important. Pay attention to situations that cause you to stress and try to identify the specific elements that contribute to it. For example, if traffic causes you to stress, you may want to try taking a different route or leaving earlier to avoid rush hour. By identifying these triggers, you can take steps to avoid or manage them more effectively.
3| Identify people, activities, and situations that give you energy and reduce stress.
It can also be helpful to identify people, activities, and situations that give you energy and reduce stress. Make a list of things that you enjoy and that help you feel calm and relaxed. This could include activities like yoga or meditation, spending time with loved ones, or listening to music. When you are feeling stressed, try to make time for these activities to help you recharge.
4| Take a break from social media and news if they cause stress.
Taking a break from social media and news can also be helpful in managing environmental stress. Social media and news can be sources of stress and anxiety, especially when there is a lot of negative news. Consider setting limits on your social media and news consumption, or taking a break altogether if it is causing you too much stress.
5| Consider taking an online quiz to identify your stress triggers.
Finally, consider taking an online quiz to identify your stress triggers. There are many online quizzes available that can help you identify what is causing you stress. This can be a helpful starting point for developing strategies to manage your stress more effectively. However, keep in mind that these quizzes are not a substitute for professional help if you are experiencing severe or chronic stress.
6| Consider talking to a therapist or counselor to identify the sources of your stress.
If you are struggling to manage environmental stress, consider talking to a therapist or counselor. A therapist can help you identify the sources of your stress and develop strategies to manage it more effectively. They can also provide support and guidance as you work through these issues.
7| Practice mindfulness meditation to become more aware of your thoughts and feelings.
Mindfulness meditation is another effective tool for managing environmental stress. Mindfulness involves paying attention to the present moment without judgment.
By becoming more aware of your thoughts and feelings, you can learn to manage them more effectively and reduce stress levels. There are many mindfulness meditation techniques available, including guided meditations, body scans, and breathing exercises.
8| Practice deep breathing exercises to reduce stress at the moment.
Deep breathing exercises are another simple yet effective tool for reducing stress at the moment. When you are feeling stressed, take a few deep breaths in through your nose and out through your mouth. This can help slow down your heart rate and calm your mind.
9| Get enough sleep to reduce stress levels.
Getting enough sleep is also important for reducing stress levels. Chronic sleep deprivation can lead to increased stress levels and a host of other health issues. Try to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night and establish a regular sleep routine to improve sleep quality.
10| Exercise regularly to reduce stress levels.
Exercise is another effective tool for reducing stress levels. Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural stress-fighters, and can also help improve sleep quality and reduce muscle tension. Try to engage in regular physical activity, whether it’s going for a walk, taking a yoga class, or lifting weights.
11| Eat a healthy diet to reduce stress levels.
Eating a healthy diet is an important factor in reducing stress levels. A balanced diet can help support overall physical and mental health, and certain foods can even help reduce stress levels. For example, foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon and walnuts, have been shown to have stress-reducing properties. Additionally, consuming too much caffeine or alcohol can increase stress levels, so it is important to moderate these substances.
12| Take breaks throughout the day to reduce stress levels.
Taking breaks throughout the day can also help reduce stress levels. When you are feeling overwhelmed, taking a short break can help you recharge and refocus. Even just a few minutes of deep breathing or stretching can be helpful in reducing stress levels and improving productivity.
13| Consider taking a vacation or staycation to reduce stress levels.
Consider taking a vacation or staycation to reduce stress levels. Taking time away from work or other stressors can be an effective way to reduce stress levels and promote relaxation. Whether you take a trip to a new place or stay home and enjoy a staycation, make sure to engage in activities that help you unwind and relax.
14| Identify any unresolved emotional issues that may be causing stress.
Identifying any unresolved emotional issues that may be causing stress is important in managing environmental stress. Unresolved emotional issues such as past trauma or relationship problems can contribute to chronic stress and anxiety. It can be helpful to seek support from a therapist or counselor to work through these issues and develop strategies to manage them more effectively.
15| Ask for help from friends, family, or a professional if needed.
Lastly, asking for help from friends, family, or a professional if needed is important in managing environmental stress. It is not always easy to manage stress on your own, and seeking support from others can be a helpful way to cope. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you are feeling overwhelmed or struggling to manage your stress.
Identifying your stress doesn’t have to be overly complicated. With these simple tips, you’ll be well on your way to learning how your environment is affecting your wellbeing. This is important because, without knowledge, stress can become chronically involved in our life.
These long-term environmental-related stressors can lead to very unfortunate problems, so be sure to take the time, and evaluate what might be affecting you.
20 Effective General Stress Management Techniques
Once you have identified the sources of your environmental stress, you can begin to manage it using various techniques. Here are 20 ways to manage environmental stress, according to the American Psychological Association:
1| Practice mindfulness meditation to reduce stress levels: Mindfulness meditation can help reduce stress levels by increasing awareness of thoughts and emotions, reducing negative thoughts, and improving overall mood.
2| Practice deep breathing exercises to reduce stress in the moment: Deep breathing exercises can help reduce stress in the moment by activating the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes relaxation and calmness.
3| Practice yoga or other relaxation techniques to reduce stress levels: Yoga and other relaxation techniques such as progressive muscle relaxation and guided imagery can help reduce stress levels by promoting relaxation, reducing muscle tension, and improving mood.
4| Get enough sleep to reduce stress levels: Getting enough sleep can help reduce stress levels by improving mood, increasing energy levels, and reducing irritability.
5| Exercise regularly to reduce stress levels: Regular exercise can help reduce stress levels by promoting the release of endorphins, reducing muscle tension, and improving overall mood.
6| Eat a healthy diet to reduce stress levels: A healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help reduce stress levels by providing the body with the nutrients it needs to function properly and reduce inflammation.
7| Take breaks throughout the day to reduce stress levels: Taking breaks throughout the day can help reduce stress levels by providing the opportunity to rest, recharge, and reduce muscle tension.
8| Prioritize your workload to reduce stress levels: Prioritizing your workload can help reduce stress levels by reducing the feeling of overwhelm and allowing for better time management.
9| Practice time management to reduce stress levels: Practicing time management can help reduce stress levels by providing a sense of control over one’s schedule, reducing procrastination, and allowing for more efficient use of time.
10| Practice positive self-talk to reduce stress levels: Practicing positive self-talk can help reduce stress levels by improving self-esteem, reducing negative thoughts, and increasing overall positivity.
11| Take a break from technology to reduce stress levels: Taking a break from technology can help reduce stress levels by reducing exposure to constant stimulation and promoting relaxation.
12| Spend time in nature to reduce stress levels: Spending time in nature can help reduce stress levels by promoting relaxation, reducing muscle tension, and improving overall mood.
13| Practice gratitude to reduce stress levels: Practicing gratitude can help reduce stress levels by promoting positive emotions, reducing negative thoughts, and improving overall well-being.
14| Connect with friends and family to reduce stress levels: Connecting with friends and family can help reduce stress levels by promoting social support, reducing feelings of isolation, and improving overall mood.
15| Seek support from a therapist or counselor to reduce stress levels: Seeking support from a mental health professional can help reduce stress levels by providing a safe space to discuss stressors, improving coping strategies, and reducing overwhelming feelings of isolation.
16| Use aromatherapy: Aromatherapy can help reduce stress levels by promoting relaxation, reducing muscle tension, and improving overall mood. Essential oils such as lavender, chamomile, and peppermint have been shown to be effective in reducing stress levels.
17| Listen to calming music or sounds to reduce stress levels: Listening to calming music or sounds can help reduce stress levels by promoting relaxation and reducing muscle tension.
18| Take a relaxing bath or shower to reduce stress levels: Taking a relaxing bath or shower can help reduce stress levels by promoting relaxation, reducing muscle tension, and improving overall mood.
19| Engage in a creative activity such as painting, drawing, or writing to reduce stress levels: Engaging in a creative activity can help reduce stress levels by promoting relaxation, reducing negative thoughts, and improving overall well-being.
20| Use visualization techniques to reduce stress levels: Visualization techniques can help reduce stress levels by promoting relaxation, reducing muscle tension, and improving overall mood.
Final Thoughts
Environmental stress is a big deal for many people. We may not think of it as often as some of the other stressors, but it can have serious health consequences if left unmanaged. Identifying your sources of environmental stress and using effective and proven stress management techniques can help you to reduce your stress levels.
Doing so will help you in the long run to improve your physical and mental health. Remember, especially in this busy world we live in, it is important to prioritize self-care. Seek support from friends, family, or a professional if needed. By taking steps to manage environmental stress, you can lead a happier and healthier life.
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