The Effects of Stress on Your Immune System
Stress has proven effects on the body. Your heart races, your breath quickens and your muscles tense. These responses are designed to protect your body in an emergency by preparing you to react quickly, but when stress responses keep firing long-term it could put your health at serious risk.
Then there’s your immune system—designed to be ready for anything! But it can only handle so much. If you are chronically stressed, hormones can affect the way your body functions over time. This can increase your risk of health problems like:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Digestive issues
- Heart disease
- Sleep disorders
- Weight gain
- Memory and concentration issues
Your immune system does its best, but taking care of yourself in the day-to-day will help keep you healthy for the long run. Here are some easy ways to reduce stress:
- Meditation
- Yoga
- Talk therapy
- Exercise
- Healthy diet
- Laughter
Yes, laughter! Laughter releases dopamine and other feel-good chemicals in the brain, all of which can help decrease stress. Twenty minutes of laughter a day may help keep your immune system working properly.
If stress is affecting your overall health, you can use our telehealth services to speak to a licensed behavioral health specialist.
