Stress is often dismissed as a mental health issue something that affects only your mood, emotions, or state of mind. But experts warn that its effects run far deeper
Stress is often dismissed as a mental health issue – something that affects only your mood, emotions, or state of mind. But experts warn that its effects run far deeper. When stress becomes chronic, it can quietly alter several vital processes in the body, often long before any obvious symptoms appear. It is only when health complications begin to surface that many people realise the true cost of prolonged stress.
According to Dr Sood, the human body is designed to cope with short-term stress, but when stress becomes chronic and persistent, it can begin to take a serious toll on your health. While many people view stress as merely a temporary psychological challenge, they often overlook its far-reaching physical effects. The physician explains that prolonged or severe stress can elevate cortisol levels, trigger chronic inflammation, and alter immune signalling pathways, creating conditions that may increase a person's susceptibility to autoimmune diseases.
He notes, “What people don't see is what stress may be doing inside your body. Short-term stress is something the body is built to handle. But when stress becomes severe or prolonged, the immune system can start behaving differently. Over time, stress hormones, inflammation, and changes in immune signalling can all lower the threshold for autoimmune flares in people who are already vulnerable.”
Dr Sood highlights that several studies have found that people who experience major life stressors or trauma-related disorders may have a higher risk of developing autoimmune conditions later in life. However, he cautions that this does not mean stress is the sole or direct cause of these diseases. Instead, stress may act as a trigger or an amplifier by increasing inflammation and altering immune responses, potentially creating a biological environment that predisposes some individuals to autoimmune disorders.
He explains, “In fact, large studies have found that people who experience major life stressors or trauma-related disorders do have a higher risk of developing autoimmune conditions later on. That doesn't mean stress alone causes autoimmune disease, but it can act as a trigger, amplify inflammation, and make an underlying predisposition more likely to surface. That's why managing stress isn't just about mental health; it's also about supporting your physical health, immune system, and long-term well-being.”
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. It is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.
Eshana Saha is a fresh face in lifestyle and cultural journalism, bringing a refined, multidisciplinary perspective to the intersection of entertainment, fashion and holistic wellbeing. With less than a year of professional experience, she has quickly adapted to high-pressure editorial environments and currently works full-time with HT Media. Prior to this, she interned for nearly six months with Hindustan Times’ entertainment and lifestyle vertical, where she gained hands-on experience in digital reporting, trend analysis and editorial storytelling. Based in New Delhi, Eshana specialises in comprehensive coverage of major cultural moments — from international film press tours to the curated aesthetics of global fashion showcases, award shows and music-centred events. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in English from St Xavier’s University, Kolkata, and a Master’s degree in English from the University of Delhi, equipping her with a strong academic foundation and a keen ability to deconstruct complex cultural trends into clear, high-impact narratives. Beyond the red carpet, Eshana has developed a growing focus on health and wellbeing reporting. She bridges the gap between celebrity-driven trends and practical, evidence-informed lifestyle advice, ensuring her work remains both aspirational and grounded in editorial rigour. She has extensively covered the health implications of Delhi’s air pollution crisis, while also playing a key role in amplifying expert-led insights on women’s health and mental wellbeing, helping translate complex medical perspectives into informed, impactful public awareness. An artist at heart, she explores multiple creative forms — from visual arts and music to culinary experiments — and brings a creative’s eye for nuance, texture and detail to every story. Whether analysing runway dynamics or examining emerging wellness movements, she remains committed to accuracy and the highest standards of contemporary journalistic ethics.Read More