It’s no secret that stress levels are on the rise these days. Something as simple as getting stuck in traffic can leave you feeling tense or on edge, and it doesn’t take long for that stress to creep into other aspects of your life. Shockingly, about a quarter of Americans regularly experience high stress levels, which is a troubling statistic. Stress and anxiety don’t just affect our mental well-being by making us feel irritated, frustrated, or angry—they also influence our physical health. This can lead to lashing out at others, continuing the cycle of stress and anxiety.
We often think of stress as mainly an emotional burden, but it can also have significant physical consequences. For example, stress may cause you to grind your teeth at night, which could lead to dental issues like weakened enamel or discomfort. Stress from financial or family problems may trigger headaches or digestive troubles. One of the biggest risks of ongoing stress is that it can make us neglect self-care, leading to unhealthy habits such as overeating or ignoring basic health needs.
Stress doesn’t just affect your mood—it can impact your physical health in profound ways. Chronic stress is linked to serious health concerns, including dental problems that may require a visit to a dentist in McLean, VA for those in the area that need treatment. If you’ve only been thinking of stress as a mental issue, it’s time to reconsider. Learn more about how stress and anxiety can influence your entire body and well-being.