Why Stress is (Literally) Killing You: 4 Physical Effects of Stress

Last week I was plagued with chest pains.

At first, I was convinced that I was having an early onset heart attack. (Que the hypochondria.) After doing a lot of self reflection, I realized the source was probably stress.

The reality is most of us deal with some day-to-day stress. That type of stress is completely normal and a healthy dose of it keeps us on our toes, I believe.

The kind of stress that makes you feel anxiety, crippled to the point where you don’t know where to start your massive to-do list, and yes, causes chest pains, is not the type of stress that is going to do you any good. In fact, it’s going to kill you.

1. Weight Gain

Using food to deal with stress is a common outlet. Overeating without exercise, however, is a surefire way to gain weight.

As many of us know, being overweight can cause a number of other health issues; from high blood pressure to diabetes to a number of other diseases.

2. Depression

Depression is a common mental disease – yes, a disease – that can be brought on by stress.

If you have regular feelings of hopelessness and despair that you can’t seem to manage, it’s vital to get help immediately.

3. High Blood Pressure & Heart Disease

High blood pressure can cause a number of issues down the road. Whether it’s an aneurysm, heart disease, or a heart attack, high blood pressure is nothing to mess with.

Make sure your blood pressure is regularly measured during your annual physical.

4. Disease

Stress causes the body to be focused on stress and only stress, instead of other things. When it’s distracted with stress, you are far more susceptible to disease and illness.

How to deal with stress

In short, make sure that you employ healthy habits when you deal with stress. Some include:

• Get enough sleep.
• Exercise regularly.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Take your vitamins. 

Woosah, my friends, woosah.