The mental and emotional impacts of stress can range from a general sense of anxiousness to feelings of panic or depression. However, stress affects the physical body as well, manifesting in a variety of ways that can be uncomfortable and even scary. Learn more about how stress can impact your health, and how stress management techniques can help, below.

The Physical Effects of Stress

1. High Blood Pressure

When a person is in a stressful situation, their fight-or-flight response can be triggered. This response is a primal one that's designed to protect the body in times of danger. When fight-or-flight is activated, a surge of the stress hormone cortisol is released, which raises blood pressure. While this response is needed to outrun physical dangers, it's less helpful when you're experiencing emotional or mental distress, especially over a long period.

2. Chest Pain

Stress-induced chest pain could be the result of tight chest muscles, an inflammatory response in the chest and airway, or the effects of the rapid breathing that sometimes accompanies stress. However, chest pain can be one of the more worrisome physical manifestations of stress. Always have chest discomfort checked out by a doctor, and use stress management methods like deep, mindful breathing and meditation to help lessen chest pain.

3. Increased Appetite

Pronounced hunger—especially cravings for sugary and fatty foods—can also be linked to the cortisol spike that accompanies the fight-or-flight response. Blood sugar levels typically increase during stressful situations, as well. As the body processes and uses these substances, it needs energy to keep going, which is why you might experience hunger and a desire for certain foods. Plus, there's a comfort element to food that can provide pleasure or an escape from stress.

If you need help with stress management to address physical, mental, or emotional symptoms, reach out to the professionals at Counseling Solutions of Alaska. Since 2007, they’ve been serving clients throughout the Anchorage, AK, region. In addition to stress management and support, they offer counseling services for depression, anxiety, grief, and PTSD. Call (907) 644-8044 or visit their website to make an appointment.