Physical Effects of Emotional Stress

Stress has a considerable impact on the body, and despite seeming like a mental problem, emotional stress can lead to physical pain. Learn how chiropractic can reduce the physical effects of stress.

What Is Emotional Stress?

Stress is a natural response to everyday pressures. Sadness, anger, anxiety, and shame are all typical examples of emotional stress. Nevertheless, if the stress that lies behind these emotions becomes so bothersome that it interferes with your ability to accomplish what you need to do, that stress has become unhealthy.

Physical Effects of Emotional Stress

It is important to note that the physical effects of emotional stress may not be explained by a traditional physical cause but rather by prolonged emotional or mental distress. A variety of emotions can cause physical discomfort. Even though we all feel these emotions at times, experiencing them for a long time can cause physical reactions. Emotions such as:

Sadness — Over time, sadness can develop into depression. Depressive disorders can affect the body in numerous ways, such as fatigue, aching muscles, and headaches.

Anger — Anger triggers what is known as the fight or flight response in the human body. Anger that is not expressed and bottled up can result in physical symptoms such as headaches, tense muscles and teeth, and grinding and clenching of the jaw.

Anxiety — When you are anxious for prolonged periods, your body pumps more adrenaline than is necessary, resulting in you being jumpy and easily startled. In addition, you may experience stomach pain, headaches, and tight muscles all over your body when you feel anxious.

Shame — If you are overwhelmed with shame for a past act or reaction, you may experience physical symptoms due to it. The feeling of shame for an extended period can cause overall muscle tension, headaches, and digestion problems.

Chiropractic Care Can Help

Chiropractic care is an effective way to reduce the effects of emotional stress on the body. So often, stress results in painful symptoms. Chiropractic care targets areas of the body that hold stress and aims to relieve these areas. A chiropractor can ease the pain of emotional stress by decreasing muscle tension, restoring bodily function, increasing mobility, and improving sleep.

If you are experiencing physical effects from stress, schedule an appointment at Healthy Life Chiropractic to combat stress with chiropractic care! Our practice provides chiropractic services to patients of Newnan, GA, and the surrounding areas.