Stress – Immune System Sabotage
The Hidden Enemy: Stress – Immune System Sabotage
Stress – Immune System Sabotage. No surprises here—stress is the #1 culprit behind a weakened immune system. We’ve all experienced it… that sore throat, cold sore, or flu that hits after a stressful period.
For many people with autoimmune conditions, their health takes a nosedive after major life stressors. And science backs it up.
- A 2001 study found that people with autoimmune thyroid disease had more stressful life events before their diagnosis compared to healthy individuals.
- A 2012 study in Psychosomatic Medicine revealed that childhood trauma increases the risk of developing autoimmune diseases later in life.
Chronic stress is deeply embedded in modern life, and most people just accept it as normal. But common doesn’t mean healthy!
A Harvard and Stanford study suggests that work-related stress is as harmful as secondhand smoke. That’s a serious wake-up call.
Why Aren’t We Talking About Stress More?
Did you know that over 75% of doctor’s visits are stress-related, yet only 3% of visits include a conversation about stress reduction?
Doctors are great at treating symptoms, but stress is often ignored—even though it’s at the root of many health problems:
- Autoimmune diseases
- Hormonal imbalances
- Cravings & food addictions
- Fatigue & low energy
- Mood swings & anxiety
It’s time to stop treating stress as an afterthought and start making it a priority.
What is Stress, Really?
Stress triggers the “fight or flight” response, which helped our ancestors escape predators. When you feel stressed, your body releases cortisol, flooding your system with glucose (sugar) to fuel your muscles.
In small doses, this response is helpful. But constant stress keeps your body in survival mode—leading to exhaustion, burnout, and a weakened immune system.
The good news? Just as we have a stress response, we also have a relaxation response. Learning to activate it can help your body heal and recharge.
Quick Stress Reset – Try This Now
Close your eyes. Breathe in deeply through your nose, expanding your belly. Hold for a few seconds, then exhale slowly through your mouth.
Repeat this 10 times. Feel the tension ease?
Even small practices like this add up over time.
- Avoid checking your phone first thing in the morning.
- Get enough quality sleep.
- Say NO to draining commitments.
Reducing stress isn’t a luxury—it’s essential for long-term health and happiness.
10 Simple Ways to Lower Stress – Immune System Sabotage
- Meditation
- Creative hobbies
- Spending time with pets
- Quality time with loved ones
- Nature walks
- Sex
- Dancing
- Napping
- Prayer
- Listening to calming music
Time to Take Action
Stress won’t disappear on its own. Schedule these stress-busting activities into your routine today. There’s no “perfect time” to start—just begin. If you’re interested in reading Autoimmune Specialist Naturopath Australia Online and find it helpful? Share with us your experience!
Need guidance to reduce stress and improve your health? Book a session here, and let’s create your personalized stress-reduction plan.
Loads of health and happiness,
Julie XX
