How Does Stress Affect the Body and Mind?
Any external or internal stimulus that prompts a biological response is known as stress. Our body responds in many ways to deal with stress, ranging from minor changes to life-threatening effects. When we are exposed to high-stress levels for long periods, we have a higher likelihood of many disorders. The following are some of the significant adverse effects of stress on our primary physiological systems:
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Effects on Nervous System. The impact of stress on the nervous system has been investigated for more than 50 years. Many studies show that stress can cause structural changes in different brain parts (Luppien et al., 2009). Chronic stress can also lead to atrophy of the brain and decreased weight (Sarahian et al., 2014), leading to the deterioration of our memory, learning, and judgment (Yaribeygi et al.,2017).
Suppresses the Immune System. Stress can lead to the growth of malignant cells, genetic instability, and tumor expansion (Reiche et al., 2004).
Increased Risk to the Heart. Many studies show that psychological stress can increase heart rate and oxygen demand, which may result in coronary vascular constriction and myocardial infarction (Dakak et al., 1995).
Impact on Gastrointestinal Health. A wide range of negative consequences of stress have been linked to this system, such as increased permeability of the intestinal barrier, negative implications to blood flow to the GI tract, and increased intestinal bacteria counts (Kontureck et al., 2011).
Susceptible to Engaging in Risky Behavior. Studies show that mental stress can result in risky behaviors such as smoking, drinking, and drug abuse (Yaribeygi et al., 2017).
The focus here is on the adverse effects of stress, specifically chronic stress, on our body and mind. As you consider these effects, it is important to note these three things:
We vary in our response to stress. Stress is a personal experience.
The stress impact depends on our exposure to stress, such as the severity and duration of our vulnerability.
We can learn skills to minimize the negative impact of stress by developing a relaxation response (vs. the stress response) to challenges in our lives. Check out our recent relaxation blog for ideas on how you can create a relaxation response.
References
Dakak, N., Quyyumi, A.A., Eisenhofer, G., Goldstein, D.S., Cannon, R.O. (1995) Sympathetically mediated effects of mental stress on the cardiac microcirculation of patients with coronary artery disease. Am J Cardiol. (76)125-30.
Konturek, P.C., Brzozowski, T., Konturek, S.J. (2011). Stress and the gut: pathophysiology, clinical consequences, diagnostic approach and treatment options. J Physiol Pharmacol. (62)591-9.
Lupien, S.J., McEwen, B.S., Gunnar, M.R., Heim, C. (2009) Effects of stress throughout the lifespan on the brain, behaviour and cognition. Nat Rev Neurosci. (10),434-45.
Reiche, E.M.V., Nunes, S.O.V., Morimoto, H. K. (2004). Stress, de-pression, the immune system, and cancer. Lancet Oncol. (5) 617-25.
Sarahian, N., Sahraei, H., Zardooz, H., Alibeik, H., Sadeghi, B. (2014) Effect of memantine administration within the nucleus accumbens on changes in weight and volume of the brain and adrenal gland during chronic stress in female mice. Modares J Med Sci: Pathobiology. (17) 71-82.
Yaribeygi, H., Panahi, Y., Sahraei, H., Johnston, T. P., & Sahebkar, A. (2017). The impact of stress on body function: A review. EXCLI journal, 16, 1057.