What you can do about physical and mental health stress impacts

Stress affects every facet of our lives and can have a serious impact on our long-term health. It’s important to get healthy ways to cope with stress for our overall well being. Managing stress is crucial to mitigate its effects. Techniques like mindfulness, exercise, adequate sleep, and seeking social support can help reduce stress levels and improve overall well-being.

Maybelle Ursales, MD and Alexis Lyon-Claus, LMFT, a behavioral health clinician with Dignity Health Mercy Medical Group share the signs and consequences that stress can have on our physical and mental health, in addition to effective tips for stress management in our everyday lives.

Absolutely, stress can have a pervasive impact on many aspects of our lives. It affects not just our mental state but also our physical health, relationships, and overall well-being. Here’s how it can manifest:

1. Physical Health:

Stress can lead to a variety of physical health issues such as headaches, digestive problems, high blood pressure, and even heart disease over time. The body’s response to stress, such as increased heart rate and elevated cortisol levels, can take a toll if experienced chronically.

2. Mental Health:

Stress can exacerbate or contribute to mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. It can also impair cognitive function, making it harder to concentrate or make decisions.

3. Emotional Well-being:

Chronic stress can lead to irritability, mood swings, and a decreased ability to manage emotions effectively. It can also impact self-esteem and confidence.

4. Behavioral Changes:

People under stress may adopt unhealthy coping mechanisms such as overeating, substance abuse, or withdrawing from social interactions, which can further exacerbate the negative effects.

5. Relationships:

Stress can strain relationships, causing tension, misunderstandings, and decreased emotional support from loved ones. It can also affect communication and intimacy.

6. Work or Academic Performance:

Stress can impair performance at work or school by reducing productivity, increasing absenteeism, and making it harder to focus and meet deadlines.

7. Sleep:

Many people experience sleep disturbances when stressed, which can further impact mood, energy levels, and overall health.