Stress and aging

Chronic stress activates physiological systems that are protective in the short term and costly when sustained - a concept described as allostatic load. Stress-reduction programmes reliably improve self-reported wellbeing, but evidence that they change long-term healthspan outcomes is limited, so this factor is labelled emerging.

Educational content only - not medical advice. In a crisis, call or text 988 (US) or your local emergency number. See crisis resources.