Have you ever gotten sick right after a big or stressful event? That’s not just bad luck – stress can actually make it easier for you to get sick. Below you can read about how stress and your immune system are connected. You can also find tips on how to better manage stress to keep your whole body healthy.

Stress is your body’s way of reacting to something scary. It can happen often when you have a lot of work, problems at home or even when you are excited about starting something new. A little stress is okay, it can help you focus. But too much stress for too long can hurt your body. It can even cause you to get sick.

What is the immune system?

Your immune system is your body’s defense team. It fights off germs like viruses and bacteria that can make you sick. When your immune system is strong, it helps keep you healthy. But when it is weak, it’s easier to catch colds, the flu or other illnesses.

How does stress affect the immune system?

When you’re stressed, your body makes a hormone called cortisol. Cortisol helps you deal with stress, but too much of it for too long can slow down your immune system. That means your body has a harder time fighting off germs.

When you are stressed, you may get sick more often. It can also take longer to get better. You may feel tired or have trouble sleeping. Luckily there are things you can do to combat feelings of stress.

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), long-term stress can lead to bigger problems. This includes trouble sleeping, headaches and a weaker immune system. The National Institute on Mental Health (NIMH) also says that stress can affect your body’s ability to fight off illness and may increase your risk for anxiety and depression.

What can you do?

There are simple ways to lower stress and help your immune system stay strong:

• Get enough sleep – try to sleep 8-10 hours each night.
• Eat healthy foods – fruits, vegetables and whole grains help your body stay strong.
• Exercise – moving your body helps you feel better and lowers stress.
• Talk to someone – sharing your feelings with a friend or family member can really help.
• Take breaks – do something fun and relaxing at least once per day.

Confide in others

Remember that everyone feels stress sometimes – and that’s okay. What matters is how you handle it. If stress ever feels a bit too big to manage, it might be time to talk to someone. Taking care of your mental health is crucial. Managing stress can help everyone stay stronger and healthier together.

Visit Clinicas

Stress is a normal part of life, but too much of it can hurt your health. By taking care of your body and mind, you can help your immune system stay strong and keep yourself feeling your best. Our Mental Health Care professionals can help you navigate daily or long-term stress to help you fight off sickness and live your healthiest life. Book an appointment today.