Submit your Article

In today’s fast-paced world, mental stress has become an almost inevitable part of life. While occasional stress can be beneficial, pushing us to meet deadlines and complete important tasks, chronic stress can have severe repercussions on our health. This article explores the insidious link between mental stress and physical illness, focusing particularly on how prolonged work-related stress can lead to high blood pressure and other serious health issues.

Stress and physical health

Research has extensively documented the connection between mental stress and physical health problems. When we experience stress, our bodies respond by releasing stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones prepare the body for a ‘fight or flight’ response, increasing heart rate, blood pressure and glucose levels. While this response is useful in short bursts, chronic activation of this stress response can lead to various health issues, including hypertension, heart disease and a weakened immune system.

Stress and its effects

Cardiovascular system: Chronic stress causes prolonged elevation of blood pressure and heart rate. Over time, this can lead to hypertension, heart attacks and strokes. Studies have shown that people with high levels of job stress are at a significantly increased risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.

Immune system: Persistent stress weakens the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections and diseases. The body’s ability to fight off antigens is reduced, and the immune system's response becomes slower.

Gastrointestinal system: Stress can also affect the gastrointestinal system, leading to conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), ulcers and other digestive issues. The brain and gut are connected, and stress can disrupt the normal functioning of the digestive system.

Musculoskeletal system: Stress can lead to muscle tension, particularly in the neck, shoulders and the back. This tension can cause headaches and musculoskeletal pain, which, if left untreated, can develop into chronic pain conditions.

Endocrine system: The stress response affects the endocrine system, leading to imbalances in hormone levels. This can contribute to conditions such as diabetes, thyroid issues, and metabolic syndrome.

Personal experience

A few years ago, I found myself in a highly stressful work environment. I was constantly juggling multiple projects, meeting tight deadlines and managing work under immense pressure. Initially, I thrived on the adrenaline rush, but over time, the constant stress took a toll on my health.

I began to notice symptoms like frequent headaches, difficulty sleeping and a constant feeling of fatigue. Despite these signs, I ignored them, attributing them to the nature of my job. It wasn’t until a routine check-up that I discovered I had developed high blood pressure. My doctor explained that prolonged stress was likely the primary cause.

Stress and hypertension

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a condition where the force of the blood against the artery walls is too high. Chronic stress is a significant risk factor for hypertension. When under stress, the body produces hormones that increase heart rate and narrow blood vessels, which can lead to elevated blood pressure levels over time.

Coping with hypertension

Upon my diagnosis, my doctor recommended several lifestyle changes and medications to manage my high blood pressure. Here are some strategies that have helped me manage stress and improve my overall health:

Regular exercise: Physical activity is a powerful stress reducer. Exercise helps to lower blood pressure, improve mood, and reduce stress hormone levels. I started incorporating daily walks and Yog into my routine, which significantly improved my stress levels.

Healthy diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains can help control blood pressure. I reduced my intake of caffeine and sugar, which helped in managing my stress and blood pressure.

Mindfulness and relaxation: Practices like meditation, deep breathing exercises and progressive muscle relaxation can help reduce stress. I began practicing mindfulness meditation, which helped me stay calm and focused.

Time management: Learning to manage time effectively and setting realistic goals can reduce work-related stress. I started prioritizing tasks, delegating when necessary, and setting boundaries to ensure a healthier work-life balance.

Seeking professional help: Sometimes, professional help is necessary to manage stress effectively. I sought therapy, which provided me with tools and strategies to cope with stress in healthier ways.

Conclusion

The link between mental stress and physical illness is well-documented by research. Chronic stress, particularly work-related stress, can lead to serious health issues like high blood pressure. My personal experience with stress-induced hypertension underscores the importance of recognizing and managing stress effectively.

Ignoring the signs of chronic stress can lead to severe health consequences. It is crucial to adopt healthy lifestyle changes, practice stress management techniques and seek professional help when necessary. By taking proactive steps to manage stress, we can protect our physical health and improve our overall well-being.

Remember, your health is invaluable, and taking care of your mental well-being is as important as taking care of your physical health.

Nepal and other small nations, despite their negligible contributions to carbon emissions, bear the brunt of climate change impacts disproportionately. This inequity underscores a harsh reality: While larger, more industrialized nations emit the lion’s share of greenhouse gasses, it is the smaller, less developed countries that suffer the most severe consequences. 

In Nepal, the effects are palpable—from melting glaciers to increasingly erratic monsoon patterns and heightened vulnerability to natural disasters. This disparity highlights the urgent need for global solidarity and concerted action to address climate change, ensuring that all nations, regardless of their size or level of development, are supported in mitigating and adapting to its effects.

The assertion that war contributes to carbon emissions highlights a sobering reality: While conflicts may be waged by powerful nations, their repercussions extend far beyond, affecting even peace-loving countries like Nepal. Despite not being directly involved in conflicts, Nepal, like many other nations, has to grapple with the environmental fallout of warfare, such as increased emissions from military activities and the destruction of natural habitats.

Given this context, there’s a compelling argument for developed nations to step up and support countries like Nepal in combating the climate crisis. Climate finance, in particular, emerges as a crucial mechanism through which developed nations can fulfill their responsibility to assist vulnerable countries in mitigating and adapting to climate change impacts. Concrete data on the extent of glacial melting or changes in monsoon patterns could enhance the clarity and make the argument in favor of climate finance more powerful.

The recent devastating floods in countries like the US, the UAE, Oman and China serve as poignant reminders of the urgent need to prioritize climate change. These catastrophic events underscore the increasingly severe impacts of climate change on communities and economies worldwide.

Nepal recently convened the ‘International Dialogue on Mountains, People, and Climate,’ a crucial platform where stakeholders voiced their apprehensions regarding the escalating adverse effects of climate change on the Himalayas. Urgent action to mitigate these impacts was fervently advocated for, drawing the attention of the international community to this pressing issue. For instance, Bangladesh’s Minister for Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Saber Hossain Chowdhury, expressed grave concerns about the existential threat due to snow-melting in the Nepal Himalayas due to climate change.

Emphasizing the criticality of swift and decisive action, the minister underscored the necessity of adopting timely measures and maintaining heightened vigilance to mitigate the looming impact of climate change. He stressed the imperative of minimizing climate change’s adverse effects and bolstering adaptation efforts to fortify climate resilience, not just for Bangladesh but for all vulnerable regions across the globe.

During COP28 also, Nepal successfully globalized its agenda, amplifying its voice on the international stage. The visit of United Nations’ Secretary-General António Guterres to Nepal further bolstered this effort, providing a crucial platform to elevate Nepali concerns to the global forefront. His visit not only signaled solidarity with Nepal’s cause but also helped to galvanize international support and attention toward addressing the unique challenges faced by mountainous regions.

In this context, engaging ambassadors and diplomats stationed in Nepal to advocate for global attention to Nepal’s environmental concerns is indeed a strategic move with potential far-reaching benefits. These diplomatic figures can leverage their positions to draw attention to Nepal’s pressing environmental issues and rally support from the international community.

Diplomats like Dean R Thompson, the US’ Ambassador to Nepal, whose personal appreciation for Nepal’s natural beauty is evident, can serve as influential advocates for environmental conservation efforts. Their advocacy can help elevate Nepal’s environmental priorities on the global stage and encourage collaborative initiatives to address pressing challenges.

Furthermore, the involvement of neighboring giants like China and India is crucial, given their direct stake in Nepal’s environmental well-being. As Nepal shares critical ecological resources and biodiversity hotspots with its neighbors, cooperation among these nations is essential for effective environmental management and conservation.

Recognizing the inseparable link between the environment and human health is paramount. The impacts of the climate crisis are becoming increasingly apparent, affecting not only the natural world but also humanity and livelihoods.

As the effects of climate change intensify, with rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and environmental degradation, the health and resilience of both the environment and the people are at stake. Addressing the climate crisis is therefore not only an environmental imperative but also a critical public health priority.

By working together to save Nepal’s natural treasures, we can help ensure a healthier and more sustainable future for all Nepalis and the planet as a whole.

The author, a member of the Supreme Court Bar, has been practicing corporate law for around three decades

Of late, a very intense and interesting discourse is taking place in Nepal among the intellectuals, academicians and politicians over the present electoral system in general and the proportional representation (PR) system in particular. Some intellectuals and politicians associated with big political parties are arguing against the present PR system by portraying it as a ‘main cause’ of frequent changes in government. They are trying to spread the message that the first-past-the-post (FPTP) system is the only way to ensure stable governance in the country. But their line of argument is scientifically and democratically unjustified, incorrect and against the concept of inclusive democracy, something which our Constitution has upheld.

The context: Before the introduction of a mixed electoral system, Nepal was practicing the FPTP system. After decades-long practice, the country opted for a mixed electoral system to minimize the demerits of the FPTP system, mainly in view of the role of money, muscles and caste factors in the elections. Inclusivity or mainstreaming of marginalized communities, groups and regions, a mandate of the 12-point understanding signed between the then Seven-Party Alliance and the Maoist rebels in 2005, the Comprehensive Peace Accord (CPA) signed in 2006, the Interim Constitution and TOR documents of the ‘revolution’, was another factor behind a switch to the mixed system.

Discourse during statute-drafting: As a member of the then Constituent Assembly (CA) and one of the active members of the Constitution Drafting Committee, let me recall that there was a hot debate and interactive discussion on the electoral system, and a general agreement in the end that continuing with the FPTP system as the sole electoral system was neither possible nor appropriate. So, the main focus and stress was on the ratio of FPTP and the PR system, though some members sought the FPTP system while some others sought the PR system and not a mix of both. Initially, the PR percentage was 60, which was reduced to 40 percent in the present Constitution.

Positions of political parties: Back then, the Nepali Congress and the CPN-UML were for giving more weightage to the FPTP system, whereas the Maoists and Madhes-based parties were for giving more weightage to the PR system. With different arguments and counter-arguments coming, it was a very hot, hard and sometimes unfriendly conversation.

A compromise formula: The present mixed system is a compromise between two schools of thoughts, a marriage between modernity and traditionality, that is, a marriage between inclusive and participatory democracy, and formal democracy (representing a handful of people). Back then, the electoral system was one of the core issues of contention and it was resolved at the last moment of Constitution promulgation.

Causes of instability: The politicians rooting for the elimination of the PR system are trying to convince the people that the PR system is the main cause behind a frequent change of guard. But does this logic hold water? In fact, it’s a false statement and a false premise as the history of governance in Nepal shows along with the history of other countries with similar experiences. 

Let’s look at the contemporary history of Nepal to shed more light on this topic. 

In the general elections held after the restoration of multiparty democracy with constitutional monarchy in 1990 under the FPTP system, the Nepali Congress won a resounding mandate to form a government. But his government collapsed in July 1994, barely three years after its formation as it failed to get a vote in the Parliament regarding the budget, pushing the country into midterm elections. 

History repeated itself as the KP Sharma Oli-led majority government, installed on the basis of the mixed electoral system and supposed to rule for a full five years, collapsed toward the end of July, 2016, hardly nine months after its formation, following the breakup of the coalition.

These examples show that the electoral system has not much to do with the stability of a government or a lack thereof. Rather, stability or instability is a political issue, not necessarily a function of the electoral system. It has more to do with factors like the political leadership of the day, government’s performance and good governance and far less to do with the electoral system. 

The perils and the way forward: Calls for doing away with the mixed system are coming from some short-sighted leaders of big political parties. The ongoing debate over the electoral system is welcome, but the prescription for doing away with the PR system is extremely bad.

Doing away with the PR system, especially with regard to the elections for the House of Representatives, may be counterproductive and may cause political conflict and instability because it is an emotive issue connected with inclusivity and mainstreaming in a multicultural, multiracial, multilingual and multi-geographic country whether class, race, region and gender-related oppression and discrimination persist, among others. An inclusive state is the demand of the time and so is an  inclusive Parliament. Therefore, the PR system must continue. However, it is very important to eliminate the role of money and favoritism in the selection of candidates under the PR system, for which serious discussions are necessary. 

Views are personal. The author can be reached at [email protected]

Kleptocracy, a term etched from the Greek lexicon, combining "kleptes" for thief and "kratos" for rule, paints a somber canvas of governance. It depicts a system where those in power exploit their positions for personal enrichment, draining public coffers through corruption and embezzlement. In Nepal, a nation grappling with persistent political instability and governance challenges, the specter of kleptocracy casts a long shadow, exacerbating social inequalities and impeding developmental progress. This exploration endeavors to dissect the complexities of kleptocracy and its profound impact within Nepal's tumultuous political landscape.

Understanding it 

Kleptocracy epitomizes a distortion of democratic ideals, where public trust is betrayed as officials accumulate wealth and power at the expense of citizens' welfare and national interest. Within such systems, political elites and their allies exploit state institutions and regulatory frameworks to drain public resources, evading accountability and fortifying their grip on power.

Nepal's vulnerability

Nepal's historical narrative, woven with threads of political instability and institutional fragility, provides fertile soil for the seeds of kleptocracy to take root. Rampant corruption and nepotism have entrenched themselves, corroding public trust in state institutions and eroding the foundations of the rule of law.

The nexus

The nexus between political instability and kleptocracy in Nepal is symbiotic, each reinforcing the other in a cycle of dysfunction. Frequent changes in government, protracted political standoffs, and fragmented party politics provide fertile ground for rent-seeking and misappropriation of state resources.

The impacts

Kleptocracy corrodes the fabric of Nepali society, stunting economic growth, exacerbating poverty and widening social disparities. Precious public resources meant for essential services are diverted into the coffers of the corrupt elite, perpetuating cycles of deprivation and disenfranchisement. Moreover, the erosion of trust in state institutions undermines efforts to foster democratic governance, risking perpetual instability and underdevelopment.

Economic crisis

Nepal, a nation ensconced in the heart of the Himalayas, has long been celebrated for its breathtaking vistas and rich cultural tapestry. Yet, beneath this picturesque facade lies a country teetering on the edge of economic collapse, its political foundations shaking. The roots of Nepal's economic malaise run deep, intertwining with systemic issues that have plagued the nation for decades.

Contributing factors

The journey toward Nepal's economic crisis can be traced through its turbulent past, marked by political upheaval, social disparity and natural calamities. The transition from monarchy to democratic republic in 2008 failed to usher in the desired stability and prosperity. Instead, Nepal has been marred by corruption, bureaucratic inertia and a lack of coherent economic policies.

Political Instability: Nepal's political landscape resembles a revolving door, with frequent changes in leadership causing policy inertia and uncertainty. This instability repels foreign investment, stymies economic growth and erodes public faith in the political establishment.

Corruption and governance issues: Corruption runs rampant across various strata of the Nepali society, impeding development endeavors and exacerbating income disparities. Weak governance structures have fostered an environment where corruption thrives, diverting vital resources away from essential public services and infrastructure projects.

Dependency on remittances: Nepal leans heavily on remittances from its vast migrant workforce, particularly those toiling in Gulf nations and Southeast Asia. While remittances have provided a lifeline for many Nepali families, they've also fostered a culture of dependency, stifling domestic entrepreneurship and innovation.

Natural disasters and climate change: Nepal's susceptibility to natural disasters, from earthquakes to floods, poses existential threats to its populace and infrastructure. Climate change compounds these challenges, jeopardizing agriculture, water resources, and overall sustainability.

Underdeveloped infra: Inadequate infrastructure, typified by subpar road networks and limited access to electricity and healthcare, stifles economic progress and hinders the delivery of essential services, particularly to rural communities. This infrastructure deficit deters investment and perpetuates regional disparities.

Economic crisis unfolds: In recent years, Nepal's economic woes have snowballed, culminating in soaring inflation, mounting unemployment and a widening fiscal chasm. The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated these vulnerabilities, dealing crippling blows to sectors like tourism and remittances. The resultant economic downturn has plunged many Nepalis deeper into poverty, stoking social unrest and disillusionment with the government's response.

Implications for the political system: The confluence of economic distress and political disenchantment has ignited widespread discontent and clamors for systemic reform. Dissatisfaction with the status quo has emboldened opposition factions and civil society groups, demanding accountability, transparency and substantive change. The fragility of Nepal's political institutions has been laid bare, evoking apprehensions of imminent collapse unless decisive action is taken to address the underlying crises.

The way forward

Resolving Nepal's economic quagmire and averting political meltdown necessitates multifaceted endeavors. Political leaders must prioritize stability and consensus-building, transcending partisan rifts to forge a trajectory toward inclusive growth and sustainable development. Strengthening governance frameworks, combating corruption and investing in critical infrastructure stand as imperatives for laying the groundwork for a resilient economy and a robust democratic ethos.

International collaboration and assistance can play pivotal roles in bolstering Nepal's recovery efforts, offering expertise, resources and investment avenues. However, genuine transformation can only materialize through domestic stakeholders' unwavering commitment to prioritizing Nepali interests above narrow political agendas.

In conclusion, Nepal finds itself at a crossroads, grappling with intertwined crises of economic distress and political uncertainty. The path ahead is fraught with obstacles, yet it is also brimming with opportunities for renewal and rejuvenation. By confronting its underlying challenges head-on and embracing a vision of inclusive and sustainable development, Nepal can emerge revitalized, resilient, and better poised to navigate the complexities of the 21st century.

[email protected]