Stress has become accepted as a necessary evil of our “hustle culture” society. Managing stress and engaging in self care can often fall far down on our list of priorities, beneath our careers, meeting our families’ needs, and meeting society’s expectations. However, the consequences of letting stress run unchecked takes a toll on our bodies that extends far beyond temporary anxiety or trouble sleeping. Recent research has uncovered a profound connection between chronic stress and metabolic syndrome, highlighting the connection between our mental and physical health.
Metabolic syndrome is not a singular condition, but a cluster of interrelated conditions including high blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess fat around the waist, and high cholesterol levels. These conditions significantly elevate the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other health complications as we age. While genetics and lifestyle choices such as diet and exercise are well-recognized contributors to metabolic syndrome, stress has recently emerged as a critical factor in the equation. Since an estimated 1 in 3 American adults has metabolic syndrome, knowing how to lower the risk for it - or prevent it altogether - could improve the health outlook and lifespan of many.
Recent research has shed light on the role of stress in exacerbating inflammation, a key player in the development of metabolic syndrome. Inflammation is part of your body’s healing process, like redness or swelling around a cut. However, when inflammation becomes chronic, your body sends out a continuous inflammatory response, even though there is no injury. Chronic inflammation tends to smolder in the background, undetected, damaging healthy cells, tissues, and organs. Left unchecked, it can lead to constant fatigue, internal scarring, tissue death, and damage to the DNA of healthy cells. Over time, this can cause conditions like Type-2 diabetes and cancer. Inflammation has also been shown to impact brain function and mood regulation, and people with chronic inflammation are at a higher risk of developing depression.
A new study, conducted at Ohio State University, focused on individuals in midlife. Researchers measured inflammation, illustrating how heightened levels due to stress contribute to the risk factors defining metabolic syndrome. The findings reveal a significant link between stress-induced inflammation and the onset of metabolic syndrome, suggesting that managing stress could be a far more important component of preventive healthcare than we think it is.This connection highlights the physical consequences of chronic stress, which is often perceived as a purely mental problem.
Simply put: chronic stress causes chronic inflammation, which significantly contributes to metabolic syndrome, putting us at risk for life-shortening conditions such as heart disease and diabetes.
The mental health impacts of chronic stress are profound. Chronic stress not only causes mood disorders and anxiety, but also creates a cycle where mental health struggles and physical ailments make one another worse. To truly break the cycle, it’s important to recognize that mental and physical health are deeply linked. A holistic approach to wellness, incorporating both mental and physical health, is the only way to address both areas and promote overall healing.
The good news about the study’s findings is that easy, cost-effective stress-management techniques can make a big difference in preventing and addressing inflammation and metabolic syndrome. Simple yet effective strategies, such as mindfulness, regular physical activity, adequate sleep, and balanced nutrition, can significantly reduce the body’s inflammatory response to stress, decreasing its effects on metabolic syndrome. Paying more attention to the stressors in your life to identify where stress might be sneaking up on you can help you better address and manage your stress. Above all, making self-care and mental health a top priority can have a huge impact.
At Medens Health, our team of mental health providers understands the importance of holistic care. As part of our personalized treatment plans, we empower clients to take control of their stress, whether it’s through developing healthy boundaries that protect your peace, addressing emotional exhaustion, or navigating difficult relationships. While stress might be an inescapable aspect of modern life, its management is within our grasp. Reach out to Medens Health for a supportive partner in your journey toward a more balanced, healthy future.
Looking for a therapist to help you manage stress? Call or text Medens Health at (833) 624-5400, fill out our contact form, or get started here.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Reliance on any information this blog provides is solely at your own risk. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified mental health provider with any questions regarding your medical or mental health. If you don’t currently have a therapist, we can connect you with one who is qualified to give you safe, professional, and ethical advice regarding your mental health.
If you or someone you are responsible for is experiencing a medical emergency, is considering harming themselves or others, or is otherwise in imminent danger, you should call 9-1-1 and/or take them to the nearest emergency room.
%201.png)
