7 harms of stress on the body: Expert psychologist explains!

Stress, which has become an almost inseparable part of daily life due to modern living conditions, is not as simple a psychological reaction as is often thought. Emphasizing that stress threatens physical health just as much as mental health, Specialist Psychologist Jülide Unutmaz from Anadolu Health Center Hospital said, 'When stress continues for a long time, it creates a constant state of alarm in the body, and this situation negatively affects many areas from the immune system to heart health. Therefore, learning to cope with anxiety factors through various methods or seeking support from an expert when necessary is very important for our general health.'

Stating that stress is the physical and psychological reaction an individual gives to situations where they feel threatened or pressured, the Specialist Psychologist said, 'Stress is actually a natural process, and it is not healthy to eliminate it completely. The important thing is to be able to manage this reaction and provide healthy responses. Also, it should not be forgotten that everyone's stress threshold is different. 

An event that seems small to one person can be a major source of stress for another; therefore, one should avoid judging and comparing in this regard. Before the state of panic intensifies, taking preventive steps with small lifestyle habits such as regular sleep, exercise, or social support can make a big difference in fighting stress.' she said.

SOME OCCUPATIONAL GROUPS EXPERIENCE STRESS MORE INTENSELY

Stating that stress can occur at any age and in anyone, but that some groups are more affected, Unutmaz said, 'Young adults between the ages of 18–35 experience higher stress due to reasons such as building a life, starting a career, new relationships, and the search for identity. The middle-aged group between 35–55, on the other hand, may feel intense pressure due to work life, family responsibilities, and future anxieties. 

It is possible to say that stress factors can be higher for health professionals due to intense pace and facing death; for teachers due to high expectations, insufficient resources, and emotional labor factors; for white-collar workers, especially in managerial positions, due to performance pressure, long working hours, and work-life imbalance; and finally, for service sector employees due to constant contact with people and a low sense of control.' she said.

Stating that research shows women are more sensitive to stress, especially when they try to balance work life and domestic responsibilities, Specialist Psychologist Unutmaz added, 'Men also experience stress, but they often do not express it. This emotion, which they try to suppress, can manifest in different ways such as anger outbursts or alcohol use.'

ANGER OUTBURSTS MAY BE AN ALARM FOR PROFESSIONAL SUPPORT

Underlining that professional support is not a sign of 'weakness' but rather a sign of 'strength', Unutmaz said, 'An individual's decision to help themselves is a step that increases resilience. Furthermore, coping with stress is not a one-time solution, but a skill learned and developed throughout life. If symptoms that affect daily life and functionality have emerged, seeking professional support prevents the problem from growing and helps the person develop personalized coping skills. 

For example, if it has become difficult to go to work or participate in social relationships, if physical health problems have started, if intense anxiety, hopelessness, or depressive feelings have become frequent, if anger outbursts, extreme irritability, or withdrawal are observed, if unhealthy ways such as alcohol, smoking, or overeating are being tried to cope, if one cannot enjoy life as much as before and the feeling of emptiness does not pass, and if methods that can be tried without expert help, such as breathing exercises, do not work, it is essential to apply to a health center.' she said.

The Specialist Psychologist listed some physical health problems that constant, uncontrollable stress can lead to:

• The risk of heart diseases such as hypertension or heart attack may increase.
• The immune system may weaken, making the body more susceptible to infections.
• Stomach and intestinal diseases such as ulcers and irritable bowel syndrome may occur.
• Since stress hormones affect blood sugar, the danger of diabetes may increase.
• Persistent stress causes constant muscle tension, which can lead to musculoskeletal problems such as fibromyalgia.  
• Skin problems such as eczema and psoriasis may occur.
• Sleep disorders may be experienced, and as quality sleep is not obtained, the body continues to wear down.

News Source: 12punto