There's been plenty of debate online about the recent findings of the 2024 World Happiness Report in March, which ranked Singapore the happiest country in Asia. The United Nations-backed report which surveys about 1,000 individuals per country - placed the Lion City at the 30th spot among a total of 143 nations globally, down five spots from 25th place in 2023.
In a similar vein, a 2022 mental health and wellness survey conducted by Rakuten Insight in Singapore revealed that 59 per cent of respondents aged between 24 and 34, and 52 per cent of respondents aged between 35 and 44, indicated higher levels of stress or anxiety in the past 12 months.
It looks like we are one stressed out nation, which begs the question: What are the harmful effects of being chronically wired and tired? And is it possible to undo all the damage caused to our physical and mental health?
WHAT IS CORTISOL AND HOW DOES IT AFFECT US?
First, we need to get acquainted with cortisol, a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands that is often referred to as the body's primary stress hormone.
Dr Andrew Fang, family physician at Doctor Anywhere, shares that cortisol plays an important role in orchestrating numerous bodily processes, such as managing our stress response, controlling blood sugar and blood pressure levels, and even regulating our circadian rhythm (sleep-wake cycle). "Cortisol production is regulated by a complex system known as the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis," explains Dr Fang. "On a regular day, the HPA axis maintains cortisol levels to carry out normal bodily processes."
For many of us, the stressors of daily life can be hard to predict. Is there anything can we do about it then?
IDENTIFY YOUR TRIGGERS
هذه القصة مأخوذة من طبعة May 2024 من Her World Singapore.
ابدأ النسخة التجريبية المجانية من Magzter GOLD لمدة 7 أيام للوصول إلى آلاف القصص المتميزة المنسقة وأكثر من 8500 مجلة وصحيفة.
بالفعل مشترك ? تسجيل الدخول
هذه القصة مأخوذة من طبعة May 2024 من Her World Singapore.
ابدأ النسخة التجريبية المجانية من Magzter GOLD لمدة 7 أيام للوصول إلى آلاف القصص المتميزة المنسقة وأكثر من 8500 مجلة وصحيفة.
بالفعل مشترك? تسجيل الدخول
Would You Swipe Right On Feminism?
In the debut instalment of this new opinion column, a single Singaporean declares that in her search for a long-term partner, there's nothing more attractive than a man who embraces gender equality.
The Orange Peel Theory
Would you break up with your partner over peeled fruit? This latest social media trend might just be the unlikely dealbreaker.
You Shouldn't Feel Guilty About Taking A Vacation
Even though you've booked that much-needed vacation, you might find yourself hesitant to take the time off. How do you address the guilt that may be weighing you down, and actually enjoy your holiday?
Let Your Emotions Go
Have a flaky friend who always bails on plans? Here's how you can share how you feel while addressing the situation effectively.
How Much Is Family Planning Actually Costing You?
It's always prudent to be financially sound and savvy - especially if you're planning to start a family. Find out how you and your partner can map out a financial plan that is realistic, based on advice from parents and experts.
Do You Feel Guilty About Taking Leave?
We ask the Her World team, as well as readers, if they can truly unplug from work during a vacation.
Air-Dry Or Blow-Dry - Which Is Worse For Your Mane?
Haircare experts share their advice.
How Can I Use Artificial Intelligence (AI) More Effectively At Work?
Govtech engagement manager Nicole Lim answers.
BACK TO BOLD
Say goodbye to low-key and hello to decadence with over-the-top makeup trends. Here's why maximalist beauty is taking over.
THE CORTISOL CONNECTION
Is it possible to undo the ravages of stress while living in a fast-paced world? We dive into how our levels of cortisol - our body's primary stress hormone - can be regulated, and ways to manage its effects.