Stress

Did you know a little bit of stress is good for you? Physical and mental stress challenges our bodies and minds and keeps us alert and aware. However, severe or chronic stress is detrimental to health. Long-term stress can compromise your immune systems and increase your risk for health problems like depression, high blood pressure and heart disease.

Animals experience stress, anxiety and depression too. They may show stress by pacing or other repetitive behavior, or through unusual eating habits. This behavior can be prevented through activities called "enrichment."

You can see enrichment at The Cleveland Museum of Natural History’s Perkins Wildlife Center, where wildlife specialists may give a demonstration on enrichment techniques. Look for:

- Animals searching for hidden nuggets of food
- Platforms for animals to jump on and explore
- Interesting objects for the animals to smell, handle or rip up.

Healthy Habits

It is important for humans to manage their stress, too. To reduce stress, try some of these healthy habits:

- Get some kind of exercise every day. Take a walk or work in your garden.
- Try to find some quiet time each day when you can relax.
- Talking about your problems can help reduce stress. Writing down your thoughts in a journal is also helpful.
- If you find it difficult to manage stress on your own, talk to your doctor. A physician can recommend other methods of stress reduction.
- If you feel hopeless or have thoughts of suicide, you can call 211. This United Way resource can help you find resources, support groups and other forms of help.

The Natural History of Health: By understanding our past,
we can improve our future.