Can stress make me ill?

Yes. If the pressures you are facing are prolonged, happen too frequently, or are out of your control, the stress reactions in your body can become chronic. This may lead serious or permanent ill health problems:

• Stress reactions may suppress your immune system, increasing your susceptibility to diseases.
• Tense muscles and soft tissues are more easily damaged under pressure.
• Psychological distress leads to depression and anxiety.
• Stress is linked with health-damaging habits, such as smoking, alcohol and problem eating, all of which are associated with other diseases.