The Hidden Cost of Ignoring Stress

We all know stress isn’t pleasant. But what many people don’t realise is that chronic stress doesn’t just affect mood it directly affects physical health. 

Stress: More Than “Feeling Busy” 

When stress is ongoing, the body stays in “fight or flight.” That means: 

• Higher blood pressure and heart rate 

• Disrupted blood sugar control 

• Suppressed immunity 

• Poor sleep and recovery 

• Increased inflammation 

Over time, this adds up to higher risks of heart disease, diabetes, depression, and even dementia. 

The Everyday Stressors We Miss 

It’s not just major life events. Stress builds from: 

• Constant emails and deadlines 

• Caring responsibilities 

• Financial pressure 

• Poor sleep creating a cycle of fatigue 

Because it feels “normal,” we underestimate its impact. 

The Warning Signs of Chronic Stress 

• Frequent illness 

• Poor sleep despite exhaustion 

• Mood changes or irritability 

• Headaches, muscle tension, digestive problems 

• Feeling “wired but tired” 

Breaking the Cycle 

Managing stress isn’t about avoiding life. It’s about building resilience: 

• Regular movement 

• Breathing exercises, mindfulness, or journaling 

• Protecting sleep routines 

• Talking openly with friends, family, or professionals 

Screening can also reveal how stress is affecting the body through markers of inflammation, blood pressure, or blood sugar. 

Ignoring stress doesn’t make it disappear. It makes it more damaging. Recognising and managing it is one of the most powerful steps you can take for long-term health. 

 Book a Health Screening at Bristol Health Hub and learn how stress is impacting your health. Prevention starts with awareness.