What Are 4 Long-term Effects Of Stress?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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In addition to an increased risk for

heart attack, stroke, memory loss, weight gain, chronic fatigue syndrome, cancer, quicker aging and personality changes

, long-term stress may also induce or exacerbate depression and anxiety-related disorders, as well as digestive and sleep problems.

What long term effects does stress cause?

Chronic stress, or a constant stress experienced over a prolonged period of time, can contribute to long-term

problems for heart and blood vessels

. The consistent and ongoing increase in heart rate, and the elevated levels of and of blood pressure, can take a toll on the body.

What are examples of long term stress?

  • The death of a loved one.
  • Divorce.
  • Loss of a job.
  • Increase in financial obligations.
  • Getting married.
  • Moving to a new home.
  • Chronic illness or injury.
  • Emotional problems (depression, anxiety, anger, grief, guilt, low self-esteem)

What are 5 emotional signs of stress?

  • Depression or anxiety.
  • Anger, irritability, or restlessness.
  • Feeling overwhelmed, unmotivated, or unfocused.
  • Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much.
  • Racing thoughts or constant worry.
  • Problems with your memory or concentration.
  • Making bad decisions.

What are 5 examples of how long term stress affects the body?

  • Mental health problems, such as depression, anxiety, and personality disorders.
  • Cardiovascular disease, including heart disease, high blood pressure, abnormal heart rhythms, heart attacks, and stroke.
  • Obesity and other eating disorders.
  • Menstrual problems.

Can your body shut down from stress?

But when we experience too much stress for long periods of time, it can have the opposite effect, and we may begin to notice the physical effects of stress.

Our bodies may shut down due to the effects of stress on the body

. We may get sick, fatigued, or develop mental health issues.

Does long term stress cause mental illness?

When stress becomes overwhelming and prolonged, the risks for mental health problems and medical problems increase. Long-term stress

increases the risk of mental health problems

such as anxiety and depression, substance use problems, sleep problems, pain and bodily complaints such as muscle tension.

What illnesses can stress cause?

Being able to recognize common stress symptoms can help you manage them. Stress that's left unchecked can contribute to many health problems, such as

high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity and diabetes

.

What emotions do you feel when you are stressed?


Feeling tired, anxious, depressed

. Losing or gaining weight; changes in your eating habits. Sleeping more or less than usual. Gastrointestinal problems including upset stomach, diarrhea or constipation.

Which of the following is a possible long term health effects of stress?


Heart disease

, heart attack, high blood pressure and stroke. Sleep problems. Weight gain. Memory and concentration impairment.

What are the 5 most stressful things in life?

  • Death of a loved one.
  • Divorce.
  • Moving.
  • Major illness or injury.
  • Job loss.

How do I get rid of chronic stress and anxiety?

  1. Get active. Physical activity can positively affect your mood and reduce stress. …
  2. Try tai-chi or other relaxation exercises. …
  3. Prioritize your sleep. …
  4. Focus on what you can change. …
  5. Give yourself some grace. …
  6. Avoid self-isolation.

How do I get rid of stress?

  1. Exercise. Exercise is one of the most important things you can do to combat stress. …
  2. Consider supplements. Several supplements promote stress and anxiety reduction. …
  3. Light a candle. …
  4. Reduce your caffeine intake. …
  5. Write it down. …
  6. Chew gum. …
  7. Spend time with friends and family. …
  8. Laugh.

Does stress make you cold?


Stress suppresses the immune system

, which makes it easier for you to get sick and harder to fight off bugs. “When people are stressed, they get sick. It could be a cold or cold sores, which pop up because the immune system can't suppress the virus,” says Dr. Levine.

How do I know if I'm stressed?

In fact, common signs of stress include

sleeping problems, sweating, loss of appetite and difficulty concentrating

. You may feel anxious, irritable or low in self esteem, and you may have racing thoughts, worry constantly or go over things in your head.

How do you tell if stress is killing you?

  1. You're having trouble thinking clearly. …
  2. You've been getting more (or worse) headaches than usual. …
  3. You're having digestive issues – but your diet hasn't changed. …
  4. Your skin has been extra sensitive lately. …
  5. You're getting back-to-back colds. …
  6. Your sex drive is down.
Leah Jackson
Author
Leah Jackson
Leah is a relationship coach with over 10 years of experience working with couples and individuals to improve their relationships. She holds a degree in psychology and has trained with leading relationship experts such as John Gottman and Esther Perel. Leah is passionate about helping people build strong, healthy relationships and providing practical advice to overcome common relationship challenges.