Prolonged or excessive stress can indeed trigger or worsen physical illnesses. Stress, also known as stress response, is more than just a psychological event. It's not just about making us "aware" of its existence, nor is it simply about "feeling" pushed and pulled. Stress has very clear effects on the body, capable of causing both physiological and psychological health problems. If a person is under prolonged high stress, the body will release stress hormones (such as cortisol), which have a direct impact on the heart, blood vessels, and immune system. Prolonged stress can directly harm the body.
Understanding Stress
Stress is how our bodies cope with challenging situations. When we feel threatened, our bodies release stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline, preparing us for battle or a relentless race against time. In the short term, stress can be a motivator, keeping us alert. However, when it swarms around like an unwelcome pest, things get messy.
Stress and the Endocrine System
The effects of stress on the endocrine system are similar to a domino effect, prompting the release of corticosteroids as well as a mixture of adrenaline and noradrenaline. Corticosteroids can respond to allergic reactions (such as difficulty breathing) and can trigger inflammation. Adrenaline and noradrenaline increase heart rate, providing energy for the fight-or-flight response.
How does stress affect health?
Decreased Immune System Function
Stress activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, releasing hormones such as cortisol. Short-term stress may temporarily boost immunity, but long-term high cortisol levels suppress immune cell activity, leading to a decreased ability to defend against viruses and bacteria and an increased risk of infection. For example, studies have found that people under chronic stress are 3-5 times more likely to catch a cold than the general population.
Hormonal Imbalance and Inflammatory Response
Under stress, the secretion of hormones such as adrenaline and noradrenaline increases, which may cause an increased heart rate and blood pressure. Prolonged exposure to this state can lead to endothelial damage and promote arteriosclerosis. Furthermore, stress stimulates the release of inflammatory factors, which are associated with chronic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and irritable bowel syndrome.
Behavioral Changes Indirectly Leading to Illness
Stress is often accompanied by decreased sleep quality, overeating or decreased appetite, and increased smoking and drinking. For example, insufficient sleep reduces insulin sensitivity, increasing the risk of diabetes; using alcohol to relieve stress can damage the liver, creating a vicious cycle.
Individual Differences and Coping Recommendations
Not everyone who experiences stress will become ill; this is related to genetic susceptibility, social support systems, and coping strategies. For example, people with a positive mindset are more likely to activate "recovery mechanisms" (such as parasympathetic nervous system regulation) when stressed. It is recommended to manage stress through regular exercise (150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week), mindfulness meditation, and increased social interaction. Seek professional psychological counseling when necessary. If symptoms such as persistent fatigue, recurrent infections, or unexplained pain occur, seek medical attention promptly to rule out organic diseases.