The psychological stress has significant negative effects on human health. Continuous stress can be detrimental to both the body and the mind. Among the primary adverse effects of psychological stress are the following:
Impact on physical health: Continuous psychological stress can increase the risk of various physical ailments such as heart diseases, high blood pressure, and digestive problems. It can also contribute to the weakening of the immune system and make individuals more susceptible to infectious diseases.
Impact on mental health: Persistent psychological stress can lead to an increased risk of depression and anxiety, as well as a decrease in happiness and life satisfaction.
Impact on healthy habits: Psychological stress may drive individuals to adopt unhealthy habits, such as inadequate sleep, smoking, excessive eating, or consuming unhealthy foods. These habits can significantly harm one’s health.
Impact on social relationships: Continuous psychological stress can lead to the deterioration of social and familial relationships, increasing tension and conflicts among individuals.
To protect oneself from the adverse effects of psychological stress, individuals should take certain measures, such as regular physical exercise, maintaining a healthy diet, and practicing relaxation techniques like yoga and meditation. Seeking psychological support from mental health professionals, as well as confiding in friends and family, can also be beneficial. Improving stress and tension management can help maintain good physical and mental health.
Digestive problems
According to Dr. Ralph Sauer, continuous psychological stress can lead to issues in the digestive system, such as diarrhea, stomach acid reflux, and irritable bowel syndrome. Additionally, this stress negatively affects the motor system, which can result in individuals experiencing muscle tension and pain in the back area, and even herniated discs.
High blood pressure and diabetes
In this regard, the German psychologist Dr. Mazda Adli pointed out that continuous psychological stress can lead to high blood pressure, increasing the risk of heart-related conditions such as heart attacks and strokes. Furthermore, she explained that this stress prompts the body to store more sugar and fat, increasing the likelihood of insulin resistance, which in turn raises the risk of type 2 diabetes and elevates harmful cholesterol levels in the blood while narrowing blood vessels.
Panic attacks and depression
On the other hand, Dr. Adli pointed out that continuous psychological stress has negative effects on mental and emotional health. This stress can lead to reduced focus and an increase in memory problems. Additionally, it raises the likelihood of experiencing psychological disorders such as anxiety, depression, and panic attacks. Consequently, it can pave the way for the development of mental and emotional health issues.
Relaxation techniques
To mitigate these significant health risks, it is essential to address continuous psychological stress by adopting relaxation techniques such as practicing yoga, meditation, breathing exercises, and mindfulness. Additionally, regular exercise is beneficial as it contributes to alleviating psychological stress.
Furthermore, engaging in hobbies and socializing with friends can also be highly beneficial. These activities have the potential to enhance positive emotions and, consequently, foster a sense of psychological relaxation.
Psychotherapy
If these measures fail to address continuous psychological stress, then it is advisable to seek consultation with a mental health professional for psychological therapy. Cognitive-behavioral therapy, for instance, helps in altering thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to psychological stress, such as the relentless pursuit of perfection.
Additionally, psychological medication therapy, such as tranquilizers and antidepressants, may also be considered.
