More than half of people are unaware that stress can directly impact their eye health.
This Stress Awareness Week (3rd – 7th November), we’re dedicated to educating the public on the impact of stress and providing tips on how to cope with stress, particularly, how to look after your eye health.
The prevalence of stress
64% of people in Ireland experience stress on a weekly basis or more, with one in four people claiming they feel stressed daily. [1]
Triggers for stress vary between between age groups with health issues causing the most stress for people aged 55+, and family life causing stress for people aged 35–54. Money, however, is the biggest cause of stress among all groups with nearly 8 in 10 claiming this is a trigger for them. [1]
Around 29% of employees in Ireland took leave for their mental health last year, with 50% admitting they find their work mentally demanding or stressful. [2]
Stress impacting vision
17% of people have experienced stress-related vision issues – which include eye strain, blurred vision, dry eye and eye twitching.
Clinical Services Director Stephen Hannan, said,
“Stress is something we all experience, but very few people realise how closely it’s connected to our eye health.
Stress activates the body’s fight-or-flight response, causing pupils to dilate and placing extra pressure on the delicate muscles that control eye movement. This can cause discomfort, blurred vision and even headaches – all of which can make daily life feel harder to manage.”
Tips of coping with eye discomfort caused by stress
Here’s four tips to look after your eyes when you’re feeling stressed:
- Use relaxation techniques
Breathing exercises, gentle stretching, or short walks can help calm the nervous system and reduce physical tension, including around the eyes. - Prioritise rest and hydration
Lack of sleep and dehydration can worsen eye strain and dryness, both of which are often exacerbated by stress. Aim for consistent rest and plenty of water throughout the day. - Take regular screen breaks
Excessive screen time during stressful work periods can take its toll on the eyes. Follow the 20-20-20 rule – every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. - Schedule routine eye examinations
Regular eye tests are key to spotting early changes and preventing long-term problems that may be linked to ongoing stress.
If you’re worried about the impact of stress on your eyes, book an eye test to gain a full overview of your eye health.
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