Indian man sitting on couch with laptop, hand pinching nose, tired and stressed

From Sharp Health News, a publication of Sharp HealthCare

Too much stress can have a detrimental effect not only on your emotional health, but on your physical health, as well.

Stress can affect your mind and body in a range of ways, from hair loss to troubles at work or in your personal life and more, including:

  • Acne, hives and other skin problems
  • Change in heart rate, rise in blood pressure and increased risk of heart attack and heart disease
  • Decreased sex drive
  • Digestion problems, including diarrhea and constipation
  • Feeling overwhelmed
  • Headaches
  • Impaired immune response
  • Impotence in men
  • Increased or decreased nutrition, leading to weight gain or loss
  • Increased risk of diabetes
  • Irritability
  • Joint aches and muscle tension, especially in the neck, shoulders and back
  • Lack of energy
  • Memory and concentration problems
  • Nausea, stomach pain and heartburn
  • Painful and irregular menstruation in women
  • Rapid or labored breathing
  • Reduced bone density
  • Trouble sleeping

Combat the effects of stress by eating a healthy diet, getting plenty of sleep, exercising daily and regularly practicing mindfulness and meditation. And talk with your doctor for more support.


The VEBA Resource Center offers Restorative Yoga for Stress Management Classes. Learn different techniques (breathing, relaxation, mindfulness and restorative poses) to help manage the cumulative effects of stress and support overall health Check out our calendar to sign up for an upcoming class.