Unhealthy Responses

4-2-06
People who cope with long-term stress by engaging in unhealthy behaviors and lifestyle, may very well alleviate symptoms of stress in the short term, but end up creating significant health problems in the long run. Americans engage in unhealthy behaviors such as comfort eating, poor diet choices, smoking and inactivity to help deal with stress, according to a new national survey. These of course, are just the opposite responses needed. People experiencing stress are more likely to report hypertension, anxiety or depression and obesity. In particular, women report feeling the effects of stress on their physical health more than men. The survey results seem to tie in with what research shows, that 43 percent of all adults suffer adverse health effects from stress. We cannot possibly stem the tide of society or technological advancement, but we can individually make an effort to reduce the mismatch between our ancestral and modern environment. Approximate the 150 person limit by increasing your closeness to extended kin and develop deep friendships. Reduce subjective distress by selecting a mate that is similar and compatible on as many levels as possible thereby reducing jealousy and infidelity and divorce. Cooperation and reciprocity can reduce competitive drives inherent in our psyche. We don't react well in tit-for-tat scenarios. And most importantly: Physical Exercise!