1

Emmons
Rhiannon Emmons

Crystal Echols

ENG 1201. 503

8 April 2022

How Can Stress Affect the Body?

There are many people around the world who can say that at some point in their life they

have experienced stress. Often, people do not understand the dangers of stress, all the side effects

that can occur, and can even find it impossible to cope with. Stressful situations are common in

life. Stress is the body’s way of handling change. The stress that the body can experience can be

good or bad. Although stress is a normal body response to various situations, stress can be

extremely harmful if not treated properly. Stress can cause physical and mental health issues.

This is a main concern in the world today. The health concerns stress causes make it a common

concern to people all over the world as it can affect the human body mentally and physically.  

Stress was discovered in 1936 by scientist Hans Selye and is defined as, “The body’s reaction

to harmful situations” (Marks). Stress was discovered by the testing of rats. When Hans tested

rats, he tortured them by starving them, subjecting them to extreme temperatures, and making

them exercise. Hans realized that the rats showed the same effect on their adrenal glands. Hans

began to subject animals to prolonged stress and found that it caused tissue and physiological

damage. He found that when the body releases adrenaline and cortisol, it can cause disease and

could eventually lead to loss of life (The Secret History Behind the Science of Stress). These

certain hormones that are released when stressed were later known as cortisol and adrenaline.

When a person is undergoing stress, a hormone is released which is called cortisol. Cortisol is

almost like a calming medicine that helps the body to cope with the side effects that stress
2
Emmons
causes. The method of releasing is known as Central Corticotropin Releasing Factor (CRF).

When undergoing stress, cortisol is released from the brain into the blood stream. In turn, it is

sent to the entire body to relax and subside some of the symptoms. Adrenaline is also released

into the blood stream. Adrenaline is what increases heart rhythm, causing hypertension, effecting

energy (Chronic Stress Puts Your Health at Risk). These two chemicals released are what makes

a person’s body able to handle the stress.

Many may wonder who is prone to stress? Stress can be caused by things such as work, life

stresses, and worrying. According to Watson, stress levels differ because everyone is different;

thus, everyone reacts to it in their own way (Watson). Not only that, but people tend to deal with

stress different due to their genetics and life experiences. Research proves that specific genes help

stress to stay at a healthy, emotional level, limiting the typical fight or flight response (Chronic Stress

Puts Your Health at Risk). Traumatic events are also proven to cause strong stress reactions. People

that experience traumatic events are more vulnerable (Chronic Stress Puts Your Health at Risk).

Having the genetics of anxiety passed on downplays a big factor in the way a person handles

stress and the amount that they must deal with. Studies have proven that people that suffer from

tragic events influence the amount of stress they undergo. Overall, everyone is prone to dealing

with stress at some point in their life whether it’s stress from work, or even life stresses. Genetics

and trauma can increase the severity of symptoms a person may endure. These factors greatly

increase a person’s ability to experience stress.

Stress can be complicated to understand. Stress can help people to finish things and prevent

injury (Marks). Therefore, stress can be useful. Stress also initiates hormones to the brain which

trigger the body’s “fight or flight” response which can save the body from harmful situations.

This type of natural stress is known as short-term stress. Short-term stress is the stress that a
3
Emmons
person can experience daily and can be unharmful. A person may experience a rapid heartbeat,

clammy hands, and/or throbbing headaches (How Your Body Responds to Stress). As these

symptoms can become severe if not treated properly, most will subside once a person calms

down. Chronic stress can be dangerous if not treated properly. Chronic stress is prolonged stress.

While both chronic and short-term stress share some of the same symptoms at the beginning,

chronic stress can cause worsening health issues (Marks). Chronic stress is dangerous as it can

lead to worsening health issues including the cardiovascular system, menstrual, gastrointestinal,

and skin problems (Marks). Furthermore, chronic stress may lead to a heart attack or stroke

(American Heart Association editorial staff), and high amounts of cortisol may damage the brain.

Fig. 1. The side effects stress can cause on the body (“The Effect of Stress on Your Body”).

As shown in the diagram above, there are many physical symptoms. Some common effects

are having a decrease in stamina, gastrointestinal issues, pain levels along with muscle tension.

Cardiovascular examples are tightening of the chest, and an increased heart rhythm. Sleep may
4
Emmons
be affected, and in turn can make it easier to contract different illnesses. Anxiety related

symptoms can also be present (Marks). Many people have experienced some of these side effects

as they are the most common. If stress is not treated properly, these effects can lead to worsening

health conditions and diseases.

In addition, stress can play a big role in a person’s mental health. Stress can be a silent killer,

and most do not realize how stress can affect one’s overall health. Stress effects emotions by

changing moods, getting easily aggravated with others, having feelings of uncertainty,

loneliness, and low self-confidence. These in turn can make it a struggle to be around others

(Marks). A person’s mental health is a big factor in their general well-being. If a person is

mentally ill, it can cause more health concerns. Mental health can also worsen physical

symptoms. This makes it a crucial part when dealing with stress because it can be ongoing.

Behavior is affected by stress as well. Some symptoms could include decreased appetite,

procrastinating, avoidance of responsibilities, and other motion related activities (Marks). If

stress is not treated properly, it can lead to these behavioral issues. Poor health related behaviors

such as smoking, overeating, and unhealthy diet can contribute to the chances of cardiovascular

related issues (American Heart Association Editorial Staff). These behavioral issues can lead to

worsening health conditions such as OCD. People are more likely to be susceptible to an

increased use of alcohol and drugs when stressed. This increased use of drugs can lead to heart,

liver, and/or kidney failure.

A person’s ability to think correctly is also affected by stress. Some cognitive symptoms are

anxiety, memory issues, trouble focusing, making poor decisions, and not looking at the positive

side of things (Marks). Cognitive behaviors are associated with a person’s mental health. If not

treated properly, stress can cause extreme mental health issues. Not only that, but it can cause
5
Emmons
problems with work. For example, a person may be dealing with stress and have some cognitive

symptoms. This puts them at risk of losing their job as they may not be working to their best

capability.

Additionally, stress is associated with mental disorders such as depression and anxiety.

Studies have shown that chronic stress may also lead to memory loss. When a person is stressed,

cortisol gets released into the blood stream. Research has shown that higher levels of cortisol can

affect brain function, size, and performance. Therefore, chronic stress must be handled so these

worsening conditions do not get to a breaking point.

Many argue that people that are dealing with stress need medication to help with their side-

affects as stress causes an increase of depression in many people. They argue that if medication

is provided for people dealing with depression, rates will decrease. This, in turn, will decrease

the amount of suicide rates since stress can contribute to depression. Studies have shown that

many students whom are stressed struggle with depression and having thoughts of harming

themselves. Many drugs are available when treating depression. There are many antidepressant

drugs on the market. Sometimes when taking antidepressant drugs it can be trial and error.

People may find that they need to try multiple medications before finding the right fit for them.

Consulting with their physcian and being honest with their side- effects can help narrow down

which type of antidepressant may be best for them to try.

6
Emmons

Figure 2.

Negative stress thoughts (Rosiek).

Although many encourage the use of antidepressant medications, people tend to go with a

more natural approach. When taking antidepressants, it comes with big risks. Antidepressant

medications can cause many side-effects. Medications also come with responsibility. When

taking medications, a person must make sure to keep track of their symptoms and take their

medications every day. Due to these harmful side effects that antidepressants can cause, people

tend to want a more natural approach when dealing with stress. These approaches include apps,

counseling, medication, etc.

After discovering the dangers of stress, studies were done to help find ways to cope with it. A

way to cope came out that was called “Mind-Body Training.” Mind-Body Training is a way to

trick the mind into relaxation. Mind-Body Training has shown to be successful as it can decrease

stress and improve mood (Jung). Examples of Mind-Body training that are common today are

yoga, breathing techniques and many more. Even better these training programs can be accessed
7
Emmons
by any electronic device. As the world is becoming more electronic it brings this method to life

as it is easily accessible.

Counseling is a big deal when coping with stress. Having the ability to talk to a professional

plays a big role in a person’s mental health. Counselors can help a person find ways to cope and

relieve some of the stress in a person’s life. Mental health is a big factor in a person’s general

well-being. Therefore, talking to someone is important as it can help a person from developing

worsening conditions such as anxiety and depression. Stress is an ongoing cycle that can affect

one’s mental health and physical health.

Exercise is related to relieving symptoms of stress. When exercising, endorphins are released

from the brain. Endorphins are known as the “feel good” chemical. When exercising, the body

tends to bump up the production of endorphins (Mayo Clinic Stress). Exercising can affect a

person’s mental health positively as well. Exercising can lead to positive thinking, feeling more

upbeat, and overall happier. When people are actively engaged to exercise it can lead to healthier

mental health which in turn will lead to better physical health.

EMDR is known as eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy. It is commonly

used with trauma patients. It is known to help people’s brains process and recover from trauma

they have experienced. Trauma is a big factor in stress as many people hold in their emotions.

Holding in emotions can worsen a person’s symptoms. Therefore, EMDR therapy was

discovered. This type of therapy focuses on changing emotions, thoughts, or behaviors that are

associated with stress. It allows the body to process traumatic events so that the body can heal. It

is a much faster option as many clients can see results within just a few sessions. When the brain

goes through a traumatic event, it makes a connection between the amygdala, the hippocampus,

and the prefrontal cortex (About EMDR Therapy). When a stressful situation occurs, the brain
8
Emmons
responds by using a natural fight or flight instinct. This is what protects the body during stressful

situations. The main goal of EMDR therapy is almost to trick the brain and its instincts so that

the person can acknowledge the stress that has happened. When the body can heal the better the

stress levels will be in a person.

For majority of American history there has always been a stigma associated with mental

illness. People were always made to feel ashamed to seek out help for their mental health. In

recent years, the stigma associated with mental illness has declined, and is being treated in new

and different ways. There has been more mental health awareness spread through social media.

Bringing this awareness to life helps people who are struggling to reach out and get the help that

they need. With an increase in awareness the hope is that people will not feel ashamed to reach

out and talk to someone whether it be peers, teachers, or a mental health professional.

Stress is a serious issue in the world today. It can cause physical health issues such as

diseases and mental health issues. Having the ability to understand what stress is and how serious

it can be is an advantage in a person’s health. Stressful situations are common in life, and

everyone will deal with it at some point. Understanding the symptoms of stress and getting the

help that a person needs will change the way stress is handled. Making chronic stress less

frequent in the world will decrease depression, anxiety, and suicide rates. Stress is a good thing

that a person needs but understanding the difference between good and bad stress is a vital part

of living.
 9
Emmons
Works Cited

“About EMDR Therapy.” Edited by Emdria, EMDR International Association, 13 Dec. 2021,

https://www.emdria.org/about-emdr-therapy/. Accessed 8 April 2022.

American Heart Association editorial staff. “Stress and Heart Health.” Www.heart.org, 21 June

2021, https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/stress-

and-heart-health. Accessed 8 April 2022.

“Chronic Stress Puts Your Health at Risk.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education

and Research, 8 July 2021, https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-

management/in-depth/stress/art-20046037. Accessed 8 April 2022.

“Drug Options for Treating Depression and Anxiety Disorders.” Edited by Smitha

Bhandria, WebMD, WebMD, 19 Aug. 2021,

https://www.webmd.com/anxiety-panic/guide/medications-treat-mental-disorders. Accesse

d 8 April 2022.

"How your body responds to stress." New York Times Upfront, vol. 139, no. 9, 5 Feb. 2007, p.

18. Gale In Context: Opposing Viewpoints, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A159180580/OVIC?

u=dayt30401&sid=bookmark-OVIC&xid=4be27d73. Accessed 18 Mar. 2022.

Jung, Ye-Ha, et al. "The Effects of an Online Mind-Body Training Program on Stress, Coping

Strategies, Emotional Intelligence, Resilience and Psychological State." PLoS ONE, vol.

11, no. 8, 1 Aug. 2016, p. e0159841. Gale In Context: Opposing

Viewpoints, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A459740993/OVIC?u=dayt30401&sid=bookmark-

OVIC&xid=8298cdf6. Accessed 18 Mar. 2022.

 10
Emmons
Marks, Hedy. “Stress Symptoms: Physical Effects of Stress on the Body.” WebMD, WebMD,

https://www.webmd.com/balance/stress-management/stress-symptoms-effects_of-stress-

on-the-body. Accessed 18 Mar. 2022

Mayo Clinic Staff. “Exercise and Stress: Get Moving to Manage Stress.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo

Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 18 Aug. 2020,

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/exercise-and-

stress/art-20044469. Accessed 8 April. 2022.

Pietrangelo, Ann. “The Effects of Stress on Your Body.” Healthline, Healthline Media, 29 Mar.

2020, https://www.healthline.com/health/stress/effects-on-body. Accessed 18 Mar. 2022

Rosiek, Anna, et al. “Chronic Stress and Suicidal Thinking among Medical

Students.” International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, MDPI,

15 Feb. 2016, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4772232/. Accessed 8

April 2022.

"Stress might lead to memory loss and brain shrinkage, study says." CNN Wire, 24 Oct.

2018. Gale In Context: Opposing

Viewpoints, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A559627907/OVIC?u=dayt30401&sid=bookmark-

OVIC&xid=bdc8fd33. Accessed 18 Mar. 2022.

"The Secret History Behind the Science of Stress." All Things Considered, 7 July 2014. Gale In

Context: Opposing Viewpoints, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A374942437/OVIC?

u=dayt30401&sid=bookmark-OVIC&xid=565fe241. Accessed 31 Mar. 2022.

11
Emmons
Watson, Stephanie. “Common Causes of Stress & Their Effect on Your Health.” WebMD,

WebMD, 4 Apr. 2022, https://www.webmd.com/balance/guide/causes-of-

stress. Accessed 8 April 2022.