Stress-Induced Habits That Could Be Harming Your Health
Stress affects more than your mood—find out which habits could be putting your well-being at risk and how to make healthier decisions.
Not exercising enough
Regular physical activity is a powerful stress reliever and essential for heart health. It helps lower blood pressure, strengthens your heart, supports a healthy weight, and boosts your mood through the release of feel-good endorphins.
Instead, try:
You can reap the mental benefits of exercise by just moving more. Looking for guidance on where to begin? Check out Bronson Athletic Club or Bronson Wellness Center.
Eating too much junk food
Stress can trigger cravings for comfort foods like burgers and pizza, but regularly indulging in high-fat, high-sodium meals takes a toll. Over time, these eating habits can increase your risk of heart disease and other health issues, according to the American Heart Association.
Instead, try:
Consider swapping out fast food for whole grains, lean meats, nuts, fruits and vegetables. Talk to a registered dietician at Bronson for tips.
Not getting enough sleep
Lack of sleep can strain your heart and raise stress levels, making it harder to stay healthy. Aim for 7–9 hours of sleep each night by avoiding afternoon caffeine, limiting naps, and powering down electronics an hour or two before bed.
Instead, try:
Try swapping your afternoon coffee for a non-caffeinated tea, and use Use the few hours before bed to read, listen to music or take a bath.
Smoking
Smoking reduces the oxygen in your blood and accelerates plaque buildup in your arteries, increasing the risk of clots that can lead to heart attacks or strokes. Quitting smoking is one of the most effective ways to protect your heart and overall health—especially during times of stress.
Instead, try:
Talk to your doctor about creating a quit plan or explore local support groups or apps—taking the first step toward quitting can drastically lower your risk of heart disease.
Drinking too much alcohol
Heavy or frequent alcohol use can raise blood pressure and increase the risk of stroke. To protect your heart, the American Heart Association advises limiting alcohol to no more than two drinks per day for men and one for women.
Instead, try:
Swap out your favorite alcohol drink with an equally delicious mocktail, like one of these tasty recipes suggested by our cardiology team. Or try a new tea or coffee drink, instead.
Social isolation
Feeling disconnected from others can take a serious toll on both your mind and body, raising stress and increasing the risk of mental and physical health issues. Over time, isolation can even weaken your immune system and impact brain function.
Instead, try:
Reach out to a friend, join a local group, or volunteer—building small social connections can lead to big improvements in well-being.
