Chronic stress severely impacts health by causing long-term, systemic wear and tear on the body. It damages cardiovascular health, weakens the immune system, causes musculoskeletal tension, and triggers mental health issues like anxiety and depression.
I have often thought that stress impacts our overall health dramatically, and now studies at the Mayo Clinic and Cleveland Clinic, among others, confirm this. Stress is a natural human reaction that happens to everyone, and it's not all bad. It can keep you alert, motivated and ready to avoid danger. But stress becomes a problem when stressors continue without relief or periods of relaxation.
The key impacts of chronic stress are on heart and cardiovascular systems, immune system suppression, mental health and brain function, and digestive and metabolic issues. Constant stress keeps blood pressure high and heart rates elevated, increasing the risk of hypertension, heart attacks and stroke. Chronic stress also reduces the body's ability to fight off infections, leading to more frequent illnesses and slower wound healing. Prolonged stress can lead to depression, anxiety, memory impairment and burnout. Finally, stress can cause stomach pain, diarrhea and nausea. It can put you at higher risk for type 2 diabetes.
So, what can we do? We live in a stressful world, so we must try our best to manage stress. Some easy ways include techniques like exercise, proper nutrition, relaxation and socialization. They are all critical to preventing long-term damage.
Nothing does more for me than a good walk with a buddy. I have been walking regularly for 22 years with my good friend Fran. We walk and talk and enjoy the beauty of our surroundings, and after an hour, we've done our 10,000 steps, caught up on gossip, and solved the world's problems. I always feel better after our Saturday walks. Find what works for you. You'll be surprised at how good you will feel.
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