Too much stress can lead to anxiety issues, depression, fatigue, headaches and muscle tension, insomnia, stomach problems and weakened immune system. People who experience too much stress for too long become prone to illnesses, mental and physical.
Too often the response is, I'll use alcohol, or I'll get stoned and just forget my problems. These responses do not get rid of the problem, although admittedly you care about your problems less when you are stoned or high or drunk. When you sober up, the problems are still there, and in addition you have the consequences of the substance. These consequences can include substance use disorder, health conditions, O.D., family issues and trouble at school or work.
May I suggest some alternatives to substances for dealing with stress. Regular exercise is the most important. Exercise releases endorphins which produce a natural high without the negative consequences. Other activities to deal with stress are playing video games, meditate, walking, talking with a friend, doing something creative, play music, relax, take a hot bath, favorite TV program or movie.
These items are taken from a pamphlet provided by the Stay Safe Series, Primo Prevention. 2014.
