Then there are social stresses, dating, relationships, friendships and peer pressure, etc.
As adults outside of school, there is the stress of whether or not we will find a job. If we don’t, there is the stress of trying to make ends meet.
Even if we do manage to get a job, there is the stress of trying to keep it, let alone try to get a raise, promotion, and so on. Even happy occasions such as a new job, wedding, baby or home can trigger stress in the body.
Most of us work very hard and “burn the candle at both ends” to try to keep up with all the demands on our time every day. This can lead to a lack of sleep and “downtime” or relaxation to help recharge the body and mind. The lack of rest and downtime can, in turn, lead to a weakened immune system.
A lack of sleep has been shown to have the same effects on the immune system as stress. Stress can also interfere with one’s ability to fall asleep and stay asleep. This can then create a vicious cycle of even more stress from sleep deprivation, which can leave your immune system vulnerable and open to attack.
If you’ve been acting like a workaholic, not getting enough sleep, and not taking time out for relaxation, it’s time to get your stress under control.
Above all, you need to avoid burning out and damaging your immune system so much that it triggers excessive inflammation. Inflammation has been implicated in many medical conditions, such as arthritis, diabetes and certain forms of cancer.
There are many ways to reduce stress effectively, from yoga to meditation, Tai Chi to a warm, relaxing bath, a good night’s sleep to spending quality time with friends and family.
If you have been overworking, it’s time to make some new appointments on your calendar with yourself in order to reduce stress, add exercise and sleep to your daily routine, and care better for yourself even as you boost your immune system.