We all face stress. From deadlines and finances to family responsibilities and health concerns, stress is part of life. But when stress becomes overwhelming or starts affecting how you think, feel, sleep, or function, it might be more than just “a bad week.”
At Chinese General Hospital and Medical Center (CGHMC), we understand that mental health is essential to overall well-being. Knowing the difference between everyday stress and a clinical mental health concern can make all the difference in your recovery—and your future.
Everyday Stress vs. Clinical Concern: Knowing the Difference
Not all stress is harmful. In fact, some stress can motivate you to meet challenges or improve performance. This is often referred to as acute stress, which is short-lived and usually tied to specific events—like exams, work deadlines, or public speaking.
However, when stress becomes chronic, excessive, or starts interfering with daily life, it may signal a more serious mental health concern, such as anxiety disorder, depression, or adjustment disorder.
Everyday Stress:
- Has a clear cause or trigger
- Resolves after the situation improves
- Doesn’t impair your ability to function
- May cause short-term irritability or restlessness
When It Becomes a Clinical Concern:
- The stress persists for weeks or months
- No longer linked to a specific event
- Begins to affect your sleep, appetite, relationships, work, or school
- Includes physical symptoms like fatigue, headaches, or digestive issues
- Triggers emotional distress like hopelessness, anger, sadness, or panic
When these symptoms last or worsen, it’s time to seek help.
Common Warning Signs That Shouldn’t Be Ignored
Some people think mental health issues always come with dramatic symptoms, but often, the signs are subtle. Many patients don’t realize how much their stress or mood has changed until it affects their daily lives or relationships.
Here are some red flags that it’s more than just stress:
- Difficulty falling or staying asleep
- Feeling “on edge” or irritable for most of the day
- Loss of interest in things you used to enjoy
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Difficulty focusing or making decisions
- Withdrawing from friends or family
- Physical complaints with no clear cause (e.g., headaches, body pain)
- Constant worrying, fear, or racing thoughts
- Feeling hopeless, helpless, or overwhelmed
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide (seek emergency help immediately)
These symptoms can signal depression, anxiety, panic disorder, burnout, or other mental health conditions. The earlier you seek support, the sooner you can regain stability and relief.
How Stress Impacts Your Body and Daily Function
Stress doesn’t just affect your mind—it can impact your body in ways you might not expect. Prolonged or unmanaged stress can strain nearly every organ system.
Physical Effects of Chronic Stress:
- Weakened immune system
- Elevated blood pressure or heart rate
- Digestive problems (e.g., irritable bowel syndrome, ulcers)
- Increased risk for heart disease or stroke
- Muscle tension and chronic pain
- Disruption in blood sugar levels
Cognitive and Behavioral Effects:
- Trouble concentrating or remembering
- Avoidance of responsibilities or social activities
- Risky behaviors (e.g., substance use, overspending)
- Burnout and job dissatisfaction
- Sleep deprivation and fatigue
Left unaddressed, these effects can escalate into long-term health problems. This is why mental health care is health care.
What Happens During a Mental Health Consult at CGHMC
Many people delay seeing a psychiatrist or psychologist because they fear being judged or misunderstood. At CGHMC, our Mental Health and Psychiatry team prioritizes confidentiality, compassion, and patient dignity.
Here’s what to expect from a mental health consultation:
- Initial Interview and History
The doctor will ask about your emotional symptoms, physical complaints, lifestyle, and personal or family history of mental health issues.
- Assessment and Screening
You may be asked to complete simple questionnaires or rating scales that help identify depression, anxiety, or other conditions.
- Diagnosis and Feedback
If a mental health condition is identified, your doctor will explain the findings in clear, respectful language and discuss treatment options.
- Treatment Planning
Based on your needs, treatment may include:
- Medication (e.g., antidepressants, anti-anxiety meds)
- Psychotherapy (talk therapy or counseling)
- Lifestyle advice (sleep hygiene, stress management, nutrition)
- Referrals to other specialists if needed (e.g., neurologist, endocrinologist)
The consult usually lasts 30 to 60 minutes, and everything shared remains private under strict confidentiality policies.
Compassionate, Confidential Care You Can Trust
At CGHMC, we understand that seeking mental health support can be difficult—but it is also a sign of strength. Whether you’re facing chronic stress, burnout, anxiety, depression, or emotional struggles related to life transitions, you deserve care without judgment.
Why patients choose CGHMC:
- Board-certified psychiatrists and psychologists
- Private, discreet consultation rooms
- Integrated care model with referrals to internal medicine, neurology, or other specialties when needed
- Follow-through care, including medication monitoring and psychotherapy options
- Support for adolescents, adults, and seniors
Mental health is a journey—not a one-time fix. We’re here to support you at every step, whether it’s your first consult or a long-term care plan.
Don’t Let Stress Control Your Life
Stress may be common, but suffering in silence doesn’t have to be. If your emotional or mental state is making daily life difficult, help is available—and healing is possible.
Call (02) 8711 4141 to book a mental health consult
Visit www.cghmc.com.ph for service details
Take the first step toward wellness with trusted support at CGHMC.
Ref:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy–lifestyle/stress–management/in–depth/stresssymptoms/art–20050987 https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/22702–psychiatrist https://www.arnoldpalmerhospital.com/content–hub/stress–vs–clinical–anxiety–and–howto–spot–the–difference https://www.psychiatry.org/patients–families/anxiety–disorders/what–are–anxiety–disorders
