Today, many people are working more hours, commuting to their job, balancing work/friends/family, and managing finances to make ends meet. Stress is a normal physiological and emotional response, and in small quantities can be good for our productivity. However, prolonged stress can become harmful and is a risk factor for a variety of physical or psychological illnesses. Anxiety is described as feelings of apprehension, fear or stress not in relation to a stressful situation (may be anticipatory).

Because of their high stress/anxiety levels many people resort to fast-food, or skip meals all together, use coffee and other stimulants, and often cut down on their hours of sleep. Unfortunately, these activities when performed habitually leave us feeling more drained and lethargic, or on-edge than before. For these patients it is important to help them understand that they can “make time” by being more efficient in the time that they have by allowing themselves to do the activities they enjoy and find balance and by identifying and dealing with the source of stress/anxiety. On occasion herbs, acupuncture, and nutrition can be used to help to reduce overall stress levels which can enable people to come to a place where they function more effectively and are therefore able to address the source. Various medical conditions can contribute to stress and anxiety levels and should be ruled out with your doctor prior to treatment.

Dr. Atkins has had great success treating patients who suffer from anxiety and can help you to manage the high level of stress, call him at (250) 655-1660 to schedule a consultation.