“Life stressful events” – such as the death of a close friend or family member, going to a new school, or taking on a mortgage can increase the chances of getting sick. In this study, written by Cohen and colleagues a correlation between stressful life events and how it can increase the risk of developing a disease/illness like cardiovascular diseases, infectious diseases, cancer, and depression. Many different psychologists argue as to what events specifically are “stressful events” because everyone can interpret stress differently.
Some examples of different events that people consider stressful. The impact of all these events varies between different people. (Credit: American Institute of Stress/Knowable Magazine)
Will you ALWAYS get sick or depressed because of stress?
Different kinds of stressful life events can lead to negative health effects varying from a cold to major depression to a heart attack. One study looked at how stress influenced an individual’s ability to fight off the common cold called the rhinovirus. Those that were exposed to more stress events were more likely to get sick, however, half of them did not get sick. Yes, just being stressed does not necessarily mean that you will always get sick or depressed. Cohen, Murphy, and Prather explained that”most people who experience stressful events do not get sick” because some are resilient than others.
Results of fighting off a cold with and without stress. (Credit: S. Cohen et al./Health Psychology 1998/Knowable Magazine)
Having a Negative Attitude
Having a negative attitude, in general, tends to result in depression. Studies show that striking a person’s “core identity” such as losing a job or conflict with close friends can raise the risk of depression. “Depression and heart disease are frequently associated with stressful events,” said Tom Siegfried. Stress can discourage exercising and eating healthy. Stress can also lead to bad habits such as drinking and smoking.
This video highlights the negative impacts of mental health in general. (Credit: Healthwatch Peterborough)
University Stress
University can be very stressful, so take care of yourself and remember to take study breaks in between long study periods! According to a 2008 mental health study by the Associated Press and mtvU, eight in 10 college students say they have experienced stress in their daily lives over the past three months in August 2018. “This was an increase of 20% from a survey five years ago.” from the website of The American Institute of Stress. Self-care is really important for your mental health and physical health.
A few things you can do when taking a break from studying. (Credit: Flickr)
Written by: Chelsey Chow
