How stress affects the body & mind


How stress affects the body and mind

What are the Effects?

Stress is more than just a feeling, how stress affects your body and your mind is very real. When we experience stress, our brain and nervous system trigger a series of responses that prepare us to react quickly, often called the "fight or flight" response. While this can be helpful in short bursts, long-term or ongoing stress can take a serious toll on our health and wellbeing.

Understanding how stress affects the body and shows up can help you notice it earlier, manage it better, and protect your mental and physical health.

The Body's Response to Stress

When we feel under pressure, the body releases stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. These cause changes that prepare us to deal with immediate threats. But when stress becomes constant, the body stays in this high-alert state, which can lead to a range of health problems.

Common Physical Effects of Stress:

  • Headaches and migraines
  • Muscle tension, especially in the neck, shoulders, or jaw
  • Fatigue or low energy, even after rest
  • Stomach problems, including nausea, indigestion, or IBS symptoms
  • Weakened immune system, leading to frequent colds or infections
  • Increased heart rate and blood pressure
  • Changes in appetite — eating too much or too little
  • Sleep disturbances, including difficulty falling asleep or waking up frequently
  • Skin issues such as acne, eczema or flare-ups of other conditions

How stress affects the body

How Stress Affects the Mind

Prolonged stress can impact the way we think, feel, and behave. It can also influence how we relate to others and how we see ourselves. Mental and emotional effects may be harder to spot at first, but they can be just as serious.

Common Mental and Emotional Effects:

  • Feeling overwhelmed or constantly on edge
  • Racing thoughts or difficulty concentrating
  • Low mood, anxiety, or a sense of dread
  • Irritability or mood swings
  • Loss of motivation or interest in things once enjoyed
  • Increased feelings of loneliness or isolation
  • Low self-esteem or negative self-talk
  • Worrying excessively or struggling to make decisions

Behavioural Effects of Stress

Stress doesn't just affect how we feel, it can also influence how we behave. Often, people develop coping habits without realising, some of which may make things worse in the long run.

Behavioural Signs of Stress:

  • Avoiding people or situations
  • Being more snappy or impatient than usual
  • Using alcohol, drugs, caffeine, or comfort food to cope
  • Procrastinating or feeling constantly behind
  • Neglecting responsibilities or self-care

Why It Matters

Over time, unaddressed stress can increase the risk of serious health conditions such as:

  • Heart disease
  • Depression and anxiety
  • Digestive disorders
  • Sleep disorders
  • High blood pressure
  • Burnout or emotional exhaustion

But it doesn't have to reach that point. Recognising the signs early gives you the opportunity to manage stress before it causes lasting harm.

What Can You Do About It?

If you recognise these symptoms in yourself, it’s a sign to slow down and take action. That might mean:

  • Talking to someone you trust
  • Speaking with a GP or mental health professional
  • Practising mindfulness or breathing exercises
  • Improving sleep, nutrition, or exercise habits
  • Using stress management tools (many are free and easy to access)

You can explore more strategies in our sections on:

  • Coping with Stress
  • Mindfulness & Self-Care
  • Tools & Resources
  • Where to Get Help

You're Not Alone – Help Is Available

Anxiety UK
☎️ 03444 775 774 | anxietyuk.org.uk
Help for those living with anxiety, stress, panic and phobias.

👶 Childline - Children, Young People & Families
☎️ 0800 1111 | childline.org.uk
Free, confidential support for anyone under 19. Chat online or call any time.

Family Lives
☎️ 0808 800 2222 | familylives.org.uk
Advice and support for parents and families dealing with stress, conflict, or behaviour issues.

Mind
☎️ 0300 123 3393 | mind.org.uk
Information, support and helplines for stress, anxiety and mental health conditions.

📞 National Helplines & Emotional Support
Samaritans
☎️ 116 123 | samaritans.org
Free, 24-hour listening service for anyone struggling to cope.

NHS Mental Health Services
🌐 nhs.uk/stress-anxiety-depression
Free NHS talking therapies and local mental health support.

Rethink Mental Illness
☎️ 0808 801 0525 | rethink.org
Practical support and advice for people affected by mental illness, including carers.

Shout (Crisis Text Line)
📱 Text SHOUT to 85258
24/7 text support from trained volunteers for anyone feeling overwhelmed or distressed.

YoungMinds
📱 Text YM to 85258 | youngminds.org.uk
Mental health support and information for young people, plus a parent helpline.

Find Counsellors & Therapists Near You
Talk through your feelings with a recommended Counsellor or Therapist near you From face to face to online sessions, we’ll find you the best local professionals to help you. Whether you’re looking for help with work stress, grief or a relationship breakdown, we can connect you to a range of professionals who will listen and advise.

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