The Effects of Chronic Stress on Physical Health: Why It Shouldn’t Be Ignored
Stress has become so common in everyday life that many people barely notice it anymore. Deadlines, responsibilities, and constant digital stimulation often make stress feel unavoidable. But when stress becomes chronic, its impact goes far beyond emotional discomfort—it begins to affect the body in serious and lasting ways. Chronic stress is not just a mental health issue. It is a physical health concern that can quietly weaken the body over time if left unaddressed. What Is Chronic Stress? Chronic stress occurs when the body remains in a prolonged state of tension for weeks or even months. Unlike short-term stress, which can be temporary and sometimes motivating, chronic stress keeps stress hormones like cortisol continuously elevated. This constant “fight or flight” mode places excessive strain on the body and prevents proper recovery, increasing the risk of long-term health problems. How Chronic Stress Affects Physical Health The human body is not designed to stay under constan...