Is Stress Causing Your Health Problems? Here’s What to Watch For

At Taylorville Family Medicine, we’ve noticed something concerning: more people—of all ages—are being diagnosed with chronic illnesses like high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes. While lifestyle factors like diet and exercise still matter, there’s another major contributor that often flies under the radar: stress.

A recent report from the American Psychological Association (APA) sheds light on this silent threat. Ongoing stress, especially in the wake of the pandemic and other national and global challenges, is wearing down our bodies in ways many of us don’t realize—until it's too late.

How Stress Impacts Your Body

Stress isn’t just “in your head.” When your body stays in a state of chronic tension—what’s often called “fight or flight mode”—it floods your system with hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. Over time, this constant alert state can lead to:

• High blood pressure

• Weakened immune function

• Increased inflammation

• Insulin resistance and weight gain

• Trouble sleeping and fatigue

• Worsening anxiety or depression

  
  

These effects build up over time, quietly contributing to serious chronic diseases.

Watch for These Warning Signs

Stress shows up in the body in different ways. Some of the most common signs include:

• Frequent headaches or muscle tension

• Upset stomach or digestive issues

• Feeling exhausted even after a full night’s sleep

• Irritability or mood swings

• Trouble focusing

• Sleep problems (falling or staying asleep)

• Using food, alcohol, or other substances to cope

  
  

These symptoms may seem small at first, but they could be early red flags that stress is affecting your overall health.

How to Break the Stress-Health Cycle

The good news: stress is manageable. And taking action now can protect your health long-term. Here’s how to start:

1. Talk to your doctor. If you’re noticing symptoms—or just don’t feel quite like yourself—we can help identify stress-related health issues early and develop a plan tailored to you.

2. Get moving. Even light activity like walking or stretching reduces stress hormones and boosts mood.

3. Sleep smarter. Prioritize sleep by maintaining a consistent routine and limiting screen time before bed.

4. Connect with others. Isolation worsens stress. Reaching out to a friend or loved one makes a difference.

5. Set boundaries with media. Too much news and social scrolling can increase anxiety. Set healthy limits.

6. Practice calm. Deep breathing, mindfulness, prayer, or quiet time can help your nervous system reset.

   
   

And remember: managing stress isn’t about “just relaxing.” It’s about making small, consistent changes that support your mental and physical health over time.

Let Us Support You

You don’t have to handle it alone. At Taylorville Family Medicine, we take a whole-person approach to care because your mental well-being and physical health are deeply connected. If you're feeling overwhelmed, noticing strange symptoms, or simply want to check in on your health, we’re here to help.