We all know that stress is closely related to our mental health. Whether we want to admit it or not, at some point or another we have all succumbed to the effects of stress. Some of us are more aware of how it affects us than others.
Stress can have significant effects on both our physical and mental health. Some of these effects we will see short term and some over the course of our lives.
Here are some ways in which stress can impact our well-being:
- Your immune system is weaker: Have you noticed that you are prone to get sick more than others? Chronic stress weakens the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections and illnesses. It can also slow down wound healing and increase inflammation in the body, exacerbating conditions such as asthma, arthritis, and skin disorders. If you are constantly getting sick without a medical explanation, it might be worth the shot to consider your stress levels as a contributing factor to constant illness.
- You are having constant gastrointestinal issues: Stress can disrupt the normal functioning of the digestive system, leading to symptoms such as stomach cramps, diarrhea, constipation, and acid reflux. In severe cases, it can exacerbate conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Our body reacts in such way due to fight or flight automatic processes. However, constantly living in this state can be detrimental to your overall health.
- Your Cognitive Health is declining: Cognitive health refers to the state of a person’s cognitive abilities, which encompass a range of mental processes including memory, attention, problem-solving, decision-making, language, and perception. Chronic stress can impair cognitive function, affecting memory, concentration, and decision-making abilities. It can also contribute to the development of cognitive disorders such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease later in life.
While you might want to rule out other medical causes for cognitive decline, it is helpful to evaluate your lifestyle when experiencing these symptoms. Many of our choices contribute to these symptoms and our distress can be avoidable. Engaging in healthy habits on a daily basis are key to preventing many illnesses, including some forms of mental illness.
These are only but a few ways that stress can affect your body. As a result, our overall functioning is also affected. You don’t have to constantly live in a cycle of distress. Check out one of our blogs on 7 tips to relieve stress to find helpful tools to cope with your symptoms. Seek out your supports system to cope. If you are doing everything on your own to handle your stress and you are still struggling, feel free to contact us or use our self-scheduling tool to book an appointment today.
DISCLAIMER: Although I am a mental health professional, the information I provide should not be considered a substitute for a formal mental health evaluation or for receiving medical services. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, you can contact us at (407) 906-5214.
Mental health is a complex and highly individualized matter, and what works for one person may not work for another. The best course of action for anyone dealing with mental health concerns is to schedule an appointment with us for a personalized assessment, diagnosis, and treatment options. Please remember that seeking help from a licensed mental health expert is a vital step in addressing mental health challenges.
If you or someone you know is in crisis or experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide, please contact emergency services or a crisis helpline immediately.
Part of this blog was AI generated content. Use at your own discretion.
