Many people experience chronic stress due to various reasons, including societal stigma. Societal stigma is the negative attitude or prejudice towards an individual based on certain characteristics such as race, gender, socioeconomic status, religion, etc. This stigma can have significant impacts on mental and physical health outcomes. One of the most significant effects of societal stigma is physical health outcomes.
Research has shown that individuals who are subjected to racial stigma suffer from higher rates of hypertension than their non-stigmatized counterparts. Similarly, women who face gender-based stereotypes related to domestic violence may experience increased levels of depression and anxiety, leading to chronic stress. The effects of this stress manifest in various ways in different areas of the body, including the cardiovascular system, immune system, and nervous system. In this article, we will discuss how chronic stress resulting from societal stigma leads to various health conditions in detail.
Chronic stress caused by societal stigma results in cardiovascular problems. When exposed to stressful situations, the body responds by releasing hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, which increase heart rate and blood pressure.
This can lead to high blood pressure and atherosclerosis, which can cause heart attacks and strokes. Research shows that African Americans, who face discrimination due to their skin color, have higher rates of hypertension compared to Whites. Similarly, women facing sexual harassment at work tend to have elevated levels of cortisol in their bodies, increasing their risk of heart disease.
Chronic stress also affects the immune system. It causes inflammation, which weakens the immune system, making it more susceptible to illnesses. Studies show that people who face discrimination based on their ethnicity or sexual orientation are more likely to develop autoimmune diseases such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. Moreover, exposure to persistent stress has been linked with a weakened ability of the immune system to fight off viruses and bacteria, leading to increased chances of infections.
Homeless individuals face several challenges that make them more prone to catching colds and flu.
Chronic stress is associated with neurological disorders. Stress releases chemicals into the brain that can damage neurons and synapses, resulting in mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. Long-term stress can even cause brain degeneration, leading to cognitive decline. In addition, stress affects the production of serotonin, dopamine, and other hormones responsible for mood regulation, leading to psychiatric disorders like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Research indicates that LGBTQ+ individuals experience significantly higher rates of suicidal thoughts compared to heterosexual peers due to societal stigma.
Chronic stress from societal stigma manifests in various physical health outcomes. It causes cardiovascular problems, weakens the immune system, and leads to neurological disorders. These effects highlight the importance of addressing societal stigma and creating a supportive environment where everyone feels valued and respected regardless of their background or characteristics. Individuals should practice self-care techniques like meditation, yoga, and exercise to manage stress levels.