Chronically Stressed: Physical Effects Of Extreme Stress On The Body
We’ve all experienced some stress in our lives before, but if it becomes chronic, it can start affecting your body and leave you with horrible consequences. Chronic stress happens when a person experiences long-term stress due to financial stress, work, relationships, or other mental health problems. The physical effects of long-term stress can be extremely severe.
Here’s all you need to know about the effects of stress on your body:
Release of stress hormones
Chronic stress triggers your body to release a constant flow of stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol, which prepare your body for a ‘fight or flight’ response. This is necessary for emergencies but can become dangerous when released in large quantities over a long period. Too much cortisol can cause some signs of Cushing syndrome, which is marked by a fatty hump between the shoulders, purple or pink stretch marks on the skin, and a rounded face.
Increased risk of infections
Chronic stress leaves a significant impact on the immune system. Your immune system is designed to fight off diseases and infections, but if it becomes compromised because of chronic stress, it can increase the chances of contracting infections like the common cold or even more severe.
Weight gain or loss
Chronic stress can change a person’s eating habits. Some people might experience sudden weight gain and obesity because of the increase in their cravings for unhealthy foods, as well as an increased appetite. Other people might experience nutrient deficiencies and malnutrition because of a loss of appetite.
Fatigue
Stress keeps your mind busy with racing thoughts, and the mental burden can become too much to bear, leading to extreme tiredness and sleeping problems. Without quality sleep, you might become fatigued and be unable to think properly or make quick decisions.
Our psychiatric nurses are trained to help with stress
Are you struggling with the effects of stress? Sometimes, we might let the stress pile up before it explodes and leaves us feeling even worse than before. If your stress has started to interfere with your health and daily life, it’s time to seek professional help. At Oasis Of Hope, we’ll provide you with a safe space to discuss your frustrations and learn different ways to manage them.
Our services include child psychiatric care, anxiety treatment, and telepsychiatry.
Contact us to book an appointment today!
