A nationwide survey was conducted by ICICI Lombard for the age group 25-55, with 1100 responses across 11 cities. The findings revealed that 80% of males are stressed due to inadequate rest and heavy workload, the number in case of females was 74%.
Although the gap may seem small, it was observed that women go for treatments more frequently and have a greater number of stress related disorders than men. However, men die more frequently of stress-related illnesses, such as heart disease, cancer and auto-immune disease.
Inadequate rest accounted for 52% while heavy workload contributed to 51% of the participants to be stressed. The main disorders caused by stress were heart ailments (67%) and high blood pressure (55%).
The results of these studies are a cause for concern. Stress if not managed properly leads to defects in regulation, control, coordination, harmony and efficiency inside and outside the body such as:
- Psychological
- Neurological
- Endocrine-related
- Metabolic
- Behavioural
One of the defective aspects of disturbed behaviour is the likelihood of accidents. Defective driving behaviour is directly caused by mismanaged conscious and subconscious stress, this in turn increases vehicle-related accidents on the road.
Manage Stress Today
- Develop a daily exercise routine
Exercise has shown to significantly reduce stress and boost fitness levels among people for both genders.
- Spend more time with your family
It is shown time and time again that spending quality time with your family leads to healthier hearts and decreased stress levels. Go visit a green patch in your city or visit a hillstation with your family.
Delhi Traffic Police data revealed that greener areas in New Delhi had fewer cases of road accidents and rage cases in 2015. Road safety and environment experts also agree that the sight of greenery reduces stress among drivers. The colour green by itself promotes health, this is also the reason hospital have green-themed interiors.
- Maintain a journal
If you find it hard to stop worrying, write it down. It allows you to unwind and separate yourself from the problems that are the root cause for stress.
- Practice breathing exercises
Mindfulness and breathing exercises are shown to reduce stress and promote overall well-being.
- Keep yourself occupied
Develop a habit to plan your day, so you can worry less and get more work done.
- Get insured
The same survey shows that 68% respondents have health insurance policy to manage health related expenses. It was found that while 14% of the male respondents claim increasing the coverage of their health insurance on a regular basis, 25% females saved money to manage health-related expenses.
The survey also concluded that those who had health insurance are less stressed and more confident regarding their heart condition. A high number of respondents (68%) own a health insurance policy to manage health related expenses.
ICICI Lombard Personal Protect insurance helps by providing coverage against most common illnesses and accident related loss. Get insurance today and enjoy a peace of mind.