What To Know About Ashwagandha For Stress

Introduction Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an evergreen shrub part of the nightshade family. It grows in regions of Africa and Asia and may be referred to as “Indian ginseng” or “winter cherry.” Ashwagandha root is most commonly used as a medicinal herb to reduce stress, but its effectiveness is not entirely proven. Stress-Related Health Benefits of … Read more

Can Stress Cause High Blood Pressure?

When you are stressed, your body responds in a couple of ways. Your heart rate and pulse quicken, your muscles tighten, and your blood pressure also rises. Being in a constant state of stress has been linked to the development of high blood pressure, otherwise known as hypertension.1 High blood pressure is a condition that increases … Read more

Can Stress Cause Cancer?

Scientists have long struggled with finding the root cause of most forms of cancer. The development of many cancers has been linked to unhealthy lifestyle choices such as smoking, drinking alcohol excessively, stress, and lack of physical activity.1 A link that is often overlooked is the link between stress and cancer. When you are stressed, your … Read more

What Is the Diathesis-Stress Model?

The diathesis-stress model is a theory suggesting that mental disorders and medical conditions are caused by a combination of an inherent predisposition and and the person’s experience of stress. Also known as the vulnerability-stress model, it is a framework for understanding how existing vulnerabilities and environmental stresses interact to influence mental health conditions.1 While the term sounds … Read more

Does Stress Affect Blood Sugar?

Stress is a powerful thing, and while we usually think of it as affecting our moods, it can also have profound effects on our bodies, including our ability to regulate blood sugar. As stress hormones are released, our insulin levels drop, which can cause a rise in blood sugar. This can be particularly serious for someone who … Read more

7 Ways Spring Cleaning Is Good for Your Mental Health

As the snow melts and flowers begin to bloom, many of us look forward to experiencing warmer weather and brighter, longer days. But this season can also bring with it a sense of anticipation for something else: spring cleaning! Though many people might think of the process as just another chore that needs to be … Read more

Is Face Twitching a Symptom of Stress?

Unfortunately, stress is a normalized experience in our culture. From the hustle-mentality many have adopted as a way of meeting their basic needs to the lasting effects of the pandemic, individuals have grappled with adapting to the stress in their daily life. Unfortunately, stress doesn’t only impact one’s mental health—it can affect your physical health too. The results can be overwhelming, … Read more

How to Use Your Senses to Liven Up Your Home This Spring

As the seasons change, we’re ushering in the renewed energy of spring by decluttering our homes and our minds after the lull of winter. In this spotlight, we’ll explore the connection that spring cleaning has on our mental health, how we can apply the same sentiment to our relationships, and tips for staying motivated to … Read more

Can Stress Cause Back Pain?

Stress is how your body reacts to changes. However, when your body experiences too much stress or too often, many health issues can occur. Feeling overwhelmed, having low energy, and not getting a good night’s sleep are common effects of chronic stress. Experiencing too much stress doesn’t just take a toll on your mental and … Read more