THE EFFECTS OF CHRONIC STRESS ON THE BODY AND METHODS OF REDUCING IT

Abstract

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the effects of chronic stress on physiological, neuroendocrine, and psychological changes in the body. The article analyzes on a scientific basis how prolonged high levels of the stress hormone cortisol negatively affect the cardiovascular, nervous, immune, digestive, and endocrine systems. It also describes scientifically proven methods for reducing stress, psychological approaches, lifestyle strategies, and modern stress management techniques.

Relevance of the topic: The fast pace of modern life, increased workload, economic pressures, a sharp increase in information flow, and changes in social life are leading to increased stress. According to statistics, more than 70% of the world's population lives under constant stress. Prolonged stress disrupts all aspects of human health - physical, mental, and social well-being. High cortisol levels cause problems such as depression, hypertension, heart attack, decreased immunity, gastrointestinal diseases, and metabolic syndrome. Therefore, the study of chronic stress and the identification of practical ways to reduce it are very relevant today.

Purpose of the topic: The purpose of the article is to study in detail the mechanisms of the effect of chronic stress on the body at the molecular, physiological and psychological levels, to identify the clinical consequences of stress and to instill in the reader scientifically based methods for reducing it. It is also aimed to highlight methods that increase stress tolerance, psychological preventive measures and lifestyle changes.