Chronic stress is simply long-lasting stress. Everyone goes through some stress everyday. But when stress is persistent and overwhelming, this is chronic stress. Now, this long-lasting stress could have serious effects on the whole body. This article, therefore, will explain what those effects are and how to prevent them.
How does Chronic Stress Affect the Body?
Chronic stress causes the body to produce the stress hormone cortisol. This hormone raises blood sugar, increases risk of weight gain and reduces immunity. Furthermore, stress has been shown to alter the rewiring of the brain. This increase the risk of impaired memory and brain diseases like Alzheimer’s disease.
Health Impacts of Chronic Stress
Chronic stress affects the whole body including both our physical and mental health.
Physical Health:
- Weakened immune system: long-term stress increases the risk of you falling ill.
- Cardiovascular problems: high blood pressure and ischaemic heart disease have been linked with chronic stress
- Digestive issues: stress can trigger the enteric nervous system to develop diseases like ulcers and irritable bowel syndrome.
- Sleep disturbances (insomnia): if you experience difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, this may often be due to chronic stress
- Muscle tension and headaches: this is a common effect of long-term stress
Mental Health:
- Anxiety and depression: stress combines with other factors to increase the risk of these mental illnesses
- Difficulty concentrating and focusing
- Memory problems and cognitive decline
- Emotional burnout and irritability
Productivity Impacts of Chronic Stress
As stress impacts our health, so it also frustrates our work and plans, causing:
- Reduced Work Performance
- Decreased focus and attention
- Lowered productivity and efficiency
- Increased errors and mistakes
- Difficulty meeting deadlines
- Absenteeism and presenteeism (physically present but unproductive)
- Strained Relationships
- Impatience and irritability with colleagues and clients
- Difficulty communicating effectively
- Damaged interpersonal relationships
Conclusion
Chronic stress is a very common experience and you’re likely to be undergoing it now. It’s important to recognize this fact and be aware of the means to prevent the consequences of stress on your health and work.
Read here to learn about stress management strategies for Nigerians.
