Stressed? Reach out to your primary care doctor for help

Primary care doctors are hubs for well-being. They help maintain your general health and watch for any changes. This includes changes to your level of stress.

Stress is often the body’s response to physical, mental or emotional pressure, such as having a lot of homework or an illness. However, you may not always recognize when stress is affecting your quality of life.

Fortunately, your primary care doctor can help you with your stress, no matter how the condition presents itself, says Dr. Joy Emmanuel, a family medicine doctor with SharpCare Medical Group.

“The most important part of a doctor-patient relationship is getting to know the person,” she says. “It’s vital to learn what is important to them, respect them and to listen. This helps improve treatment outcomes.”

Recognizing signs of stress

When a quality doctor-patient relationship exists, signs of stress can be more easily identified. These include:

• Irritability

• A change in eating patterns — eating more or less than usual

• Avoidance of regular or fun activities

• Raised cortisol levels and inflammation

• Chest discomfort, or pain or heart palpitations

• Fatigue

• Headaches

• Menstrual irregularities

Additionally, stress can manifest itself differently depending on a person's age. While a younger person may spend more time on digital platforms to isolate and escape, a middle-aged person may be busy caring for children and older parents, often forgetting to take care of themselves or ignoring their stress. Older adults may find challenges in dealing with mental or emotional issues, leading them to isolate and withdraw.

“No matter their age, everyone experiences stress that can impact concentration and even lead to depression,” Dr. Emmanuel says. “Unfortunately, some still see a stigma to getting help, such as through therapy or medication.”

Importance of seeking treatment for stress

According to Dr. Emmanuel, people often feel a sense of failure when they are unable to manage their stress. It's crucial, she says, that doctors encourage open dialogue and make their patients comfortable enough to talk about their concerns.

“Once a primary care doctor determines what is causing a patient stress, counseling and medication, if needed, can improve their condition,” she says. “And once in the care of a mental health professional, successful patient outcomes are remarkable.”

If you are feeling stressed or have other mental health concerns, your primary care doctor can guide you to services. What's more, there are many online therapy sites, which may be more accessible. Check with your insurance provider to determine what mental health services are covered.

Additionally, while Dr. Emmanuel emphasizes the importance of sharing any uncommon or unfamiliar feelings or thoughts with your doctor, she reports that exercise and daily meditation are equally important for your mind and body. “I always encourage both,” she says.

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