Chronic stress is linked to the development of many psychological problems, such as
depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia. A large body of research also indicates that stress is
linked to a variety of physical problems, including cancer, heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis,
genital herpes, periodontal disease, yeast infections, and the common cold, to name just a few.
Stress and Immune Function
Stress affects the functioning of the immune system, as do age, nutrition, and genetic
factors. The immune system is the body’s defense against harmful agents such as
bacteria, viruses, and other foreign substances. It communicates constantly with the brain and
the endocrine system. The immune system has many different kinds of disease-fighting cells,
including B lymphocytes, T lymphocytes, and macrophages:
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B lymphocytes are formed in the bone marrow and release antibodies.
Antibodies are protein molecules that travel through the blood and lymph and defend the body
against bacteria and cancer cells.
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T lymphocytes are formed in the thymus gland and defend the body against
cancer cells, viruses, and other foreign substances.
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Macrophages destroy foreign substances by absorbing them.
Stress affects the immune system in many ways. For instance, hormones that are
released in response to stress can inhibit the activity of lymphocytes.
The Link Between Emotions and Illness
Researchers have linked negative emotional states to disease.
Depression
Recent research suggests that depression makes people more vulnerable to heart
disease.
Type A Behavior and Hostility
Researchers have identified a type of personality, called the type A
personality, that is associated with a higher risk of coronary heart disease. People
with type A personalities tend to be competitive, impatient, easily angered, and hostile.
People with type B personalities, on the other hand, are relaxed, patient,
easygoing, and amiable.
