Locate Us

Pali Palms Plaza
970 N. Kalaheo Ave., Suite C-306 Kailua, Hawaii 96734

Call Us

(808) 263-7383

Stress Management

Stress is a normal part of life, but when you’re subjected to chronic environmental or emotional stress, it takes a toll on you physically and even increases your chances of becoming seriously ill. The providers at Trade Winds Family Medicine will help you find ways to manage stress so that you can function and thrive no matter what challenges you face. You don’t have to try to “beat” stress on your own. Get help by contacting the friendly staff at Trade Winds

Stress Management Question & Answer

Our bodies and brains evolved to react to stressful situations by releasing hormones, such as cortisol and adrenaline, which prepare us for either “fight or flight.” In modern life, we can’t spend our time fighting or running away every time we’re faced with a problem. Still, our bodies release cortisol and adrenaline when we feel threatened or overwhelmed, which keeps us in a state of tension and high alert.

Stress management refers to lifestyle changes and interventions that calm your nervous system so that it’s not in a constant fight-or-flight mode. The caring team at Trade Winds Family Medicine, will help you address stress-management and will make recommendations for you based on your individual needs, physiology, and lifestyle.
When you’re in a flight-or-fight mode, all of your body’s systems feel the effects. Chronic stress creates a range of symptoms related to your brain, cardiovascular system, and your immune system. If you don’t have effective stress-management strategies, you may experience symptoms such as:
  • Depression and anxiety
  • Weight gain
  • Sexual dysfunction
  • Digestive issues
  • Hair loss
  • Skin conditions
  • Menstrual irregularities and infertility
  • Musculoskeletal pain
Stress also causes inflammation throughout your body, putting you at greater risk for serious illnesses, such as heart disease and cancer.

You can adopt simple lifestyle adjustments that help your body relax and cope better with chronic stress. Some do-it-yourself techniques include:

  • Deep breathing exercises
  • Regular meditation or prayer
  • A reliable support network
  • Daily exercise
  • Eating whole, nutritious foods
  • Hot, relaxing baths or saunas
  • Planning “me” time
  • Socializing with friends
  • Meeting with a therapist

If you have trouble changing your habits, our providers can help by designing changes that are gradual and work with your lifestyle.
To add Trade Winds Family Medicine to your stress-management team, call the office at (808) 263-7383.
.