The Negative Health Impact of Stress - Infographic

We all know that impact of stress is one of the key underlying risk factors for many major physical health issues including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, and asthma. In 2020, as the viral pandemic COVID-19 sweeps through the world, stress is on the rise both in direct relation to the illness and indirectly with the disruption to our lives. Right now having your health is hugely reassuring -- especially as the World Health Organization advises those most at-risk of COVID-19 will likely already have a compromised immune system -- yet the pandemic is affecting our dynamic wellbeing. Even prior to 2020, WHO had declared stress “the global health epidemic of the 21st century” and yet many people already lived highly stressful lives. The current combination of economic uncertainty and political instability happening in many countries, makes it more imperative than ever to take steps to manage stress as much as possible.

If you’re not convinced, based on a recent citizen poll, the Washington Post recently reported that people are feeling more stressed than during the 2009 economic recession. Whether it’s personal or professional changes related to job loss, remote work, school closures, domestic challenges, or family strife, the bottom line is that almost all of us are experiencing great pressure. In response to this learning more about stress could actually help forge a way towards better management of the factors that we can control.

Stress Infographic Description

Thanks to Study Medicine Europe, this topic is explored in more detail with this infographic, The Negative Health Impact of Stress. The graphic covers key discussion points including the physical impacts of stress, key general causes, essential statistics, and strategic prompts for individuals to reduce the feeling. An overarching point of urgency for all communities is to work on stress management and reduction before people become afflicted with chronic stress and it’s associated mental and physical illnesses. As cardiologist Dr Suzanne Steinbaum says, “During times of heightened stress, it’s important to take moments in your day to practice mindfulness, physical activity, eating right, and getting enough sleep.” Read on for more points and best wishes for your health and safety.