03 avril 2023
Chronic stress exposes us to premature aging both physically and mentally. How to explain this phenomenon ?
In the event of stress, a sign of danger, we feel attacked. How does our body react when it encounters a stressful situation? “Faced with danger, the body triggers physiological reactions”underlines Pr Sébastien Grenier, psychologist and researcher at the University of Montreal.
For what reasons ? ‘Cause we’re suddenly gripped by a sense of “weak control and unpredictability” mixed with ” the novelty “. To which is added a certain “menace de l’ego”. And in response, the adrenal glands secrete a high concentration of cortisol, which is none other than the stress hormone. Cortisol which very quickly diffuses throughout the body to enable it to protect itself against the source of anxiety. At the same time, this hormone continues to invade the brain, specifically three areas: the prefrontal cortex, the hippocampus and the amygdala.
Acceleration of cellular aging
When we are regularly and/or intensely exposed to this kind of feeling, the body and the psyche can suffer. “A phenomenon of acceleration of cellular aging is observed”, confirms Professor Grenier. As a result, we find ourselves overexposed to the risks “diseases associated with aging such as memory disorders, damage to the heart, immune, muscle and bone systems”.
This phenomenon is such that our DNA is even affected: at the end of our chromosomes, certain DNA sequences sensitive to the effect of stress are indeed destroyed when they are too exposed to this emotion. These same sequences therefore shorten over time, a sign of aging. Conversely, the longer these DNA sequences are, the more the subject is “in better health, both physically and cognitively” and the older he will live.
How do the body and the brain “talk”?
How do you know if your stress is getting overwhelming? Small point of reference: “Anxious people constantly live in the future, in anticipation of disasters”. The body also begins to “talk”, with “muscle and bone tensions, memory problems, concentration problems, increased forgetfulness”. as well as a trend “irritability, indecisiveness and low self-esteem”always emphasizes Professor Grenier.
On a physical level, you can endure “insomnia, fatigue, headaches and backaches or even heart palpitations, a feeling of shortness of breath and digestive disorders”.
And in terms of behavior? Increased and chronic stress can promote “social isolation, relationship difficulties, avoidance of anxiety-provoking situations, daily disorganization, agitation, aggressiveness [et/ou] excessive consumption of caffeine, tobacco or alcohol”.
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Source : University Institute of Geriatrics of Montreal, site consulted on March 28, 2023
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Written by : Laura Bourgault – Edited by: Vincent Roche