Exploring the Impact of Everyday Stressors on the Immune System

Wondering what this mouthful of a phrase is alluding to? Let us enlighten you. 

The term refers to an intrinsic connection between our behavior and emotions, and our immune, neural, and endocrine systems. This connection has been well documented: indeed, these coexisting elements of our bodies and minds have been found to have a major impact on one another. For this reason, the fascinating area of study that is psychoneuroimmunology has been closely scrutinized within the discipline of psychology. You’re very likely to come across the concept as a student of mental health counseling masters programs online, for instance.

As you will learn, the intersection of external stressors and the immune system – while somewhat inevitable – can be treated from the root cause. Minimizing our exposure to outside stresses is in many ways, the answer. But more to the point, examining our psychological reactions to nerve-wracking experiences – especially when we cannot avoid encountering them – could be the key to maintaining optimal immune health. 

Let’s discuss. 

Feeling It Within: The Brain and Body Connection 

It cannot be denied – when it comes to our bodies and our minds, it’s all connected. But what exactly do we mean by the mind-body connection?  

First, we need to understand that these two very different elements of our physical selves are not independent of each other – as traditional medicine has historically suggested. Instead, we must realize that our brain and body functions are fundamentally intertwined.

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Consider this: scientific researchers have uncovered an evidence-based link between stress and physical health. Scientists in favor of this perspective have been able to demonstrate that when stressed, our body’s ability to heal itself from infection and disease is negatively affected. Their research has also shown that stress goes so far as to reduce our white blood cells’ natural defense mechanisms against infected or cancerous cells.  

So, how does what’s going on inside our brains impact our physiological sensations, and ultimately, our physical well-being? 

Just take Melanie Ross’ story: at a time when she was completely overrun by stress, surely it was no coincidence that she was almost hospitalized for pneumonia? Indeed, it’s most often when we are feeling overwhelmed by life that our health seems to fail us: just when we can’t afford to get sick, our bodies force us to rest. 

Relieving Stress, Healing Our Bodies: A Joint Effort in Immunity Defense 

Immunity defense. If the research findings we spoke about earlier are anything to go by, it means far more than just taking your vitamins and probiotics.

Regulating your immune system goes hand in hand with regulating your emotions. For this to work, you need to make a concerted effort not to let your stress spiral. Cultivating a calm mental state goes beyond attending the odd yoga class, though. If you find that you’re experiencing elevated levels of stress or anxiety, it may be time for you to consult with a therapist.

Of course, when we get sick, our first port of call tends to be our GP. But if we instead take steps to heal our emotional trauma, the positive impacts on our physical health could be significant. 

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A Final Note on External Stressors: What to do When We Can’t Avoid Them

Finally, what do you do when you cannot avoid stressful scenarios? Life happens and try as we might not to get into a flap, the reality is that stress is often outside of our control. 

Feeling the pressure? Here’s how to stop it from snowballing and going downhill, especially when it comes to your health:

  • Calm your mind with breathwork and meditation, by connecting with the inner self.
  • Journal your feelings, allowing yourself to process your stress and negative emotions. 
  • Identify your triggers, so that you’re better placed to confront them when they do arise.
  • Listen to calming music, or use a guided visualization app to relieve psychological tension.
  • Do some physical activity – exercise can help soothe and relieve hyped-up emotions. 

In addition to these tools, it may be helpful to remind yourself that stress is a natural part of life, and also, that it is intrinsically interlinked with the way you feel – both emotionally, and in terms of your physical health.

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