Not to put too fine a point on things, but be aware that the above-mentioned effects are cumulative: the longer we suffer chronic stress, the greater will be the long-term harm to our health.
Considering all of this, while we should certainly fear the known killers like heart disease, cancer, diabetes, we should also acknowledge the possibility that many of these illnesses had stress as their underlying catalyst.
As a final note, we often think of stress as being caused by some external event, such as a job, financial pressures, or a bad relationship. That’s often true, and if it is, the health risks are enough to suggest you need to find a way out of such situations if you can — you’ll be happier for it.
If you don’t think your anxiety, depression, sadness and stress impact your physical health, think again. All of these emotions trigger chemical reactions in your body, which can lead to inflammation and a weakened immune system. Learn how to cope, sweet friend. There will always be dark days.
-Kris Carr
