Emotional stress and the immune system

Many years ago, I experienced some emotional distress that was quite intense, where I ended up experiencing about two months of illness. During this experience, I became very much aware of the spirit, mind and body connection. This led me to some reflection, not just about myself, but about how we as people can experience traumatic events in life, stressful events in life that can lead to impacting our physical health.

Our spirit…

“A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.”

Proverbs 17:22, KJV ^[1]

When our heart or our spirit, which is the very depth of our being, experiences impactful events, such as the loss of a loved one, significantly negative events within human relationships, loss of jobs, betrayals, and any kind of abuse, this is where we can experience what is called “a broken heart” or a bruised spirit. This is where illness can settle in when there isn’t a healthy intervention that facilitates healing of the heart.

What the whole-person perspective brings into view

We can become so focused on a symptom that we lose sight of the person living with it. What has happened in their relationships? Are they living under constant pressure? Have they learned to silence grief, fear or anger simply to keep everyone else comfortable? Are they resting, eating well and receiving the help they need?

These questions are central to the conversation Gabor Maté develops in When the Body Says No. In his note to the reader, he explains that most of his case material comes from clinical practice and interviews. The opening account of Mary describes severe physical illness alongside a previously unspoken history of childhood trauma and emotional suppression. He invites attention to the history of the person as well as the disease. ^[2].

Clinical observations, carefully developed theories and research findings each have something to contribute. My own experiences and work as a therapist also shape the questions I ask. I want us to look thoughtfully at these connections, with enough humility to keep learning and enough courage to address what has been overlooked.

How stress reaches the body

The immune system is a network throughout the body. Its cells and tissues work with the nervous system and hormonal systems. Skin, bone marrow, the thymus, lymph nodes, spleen and the digestive tract all participate in protecting us. Your immune system needs to become active when protection is needed, then calm down when its work is done. ^[3].

When stress continues, the body's ability to settle and recover can be affected. Sleep, digestion, muscle tension and immune activity may change. Research involving exposure to cold viruses has examined a connection between sustained stress, the regulation of inflammation and vulnerability to illness. That gives us a physical explanation for part of what people and practitioners have long observed. ^[4].

Learning from holistic approaches

Traditional Chinese medicine, Ayurvedic medicine, homeopathy, naturopathic and integrative approaches invite us to consider relationships across the whole person. Their theories and methods differ, but the goal is the same. What interests me is their willingness to ask how emotional life, daily habits, physical function and the environment interact. Scripture also brings spiritual life and practical living together, including rest, cleanliness and care for others.

There is hope

Back in 2008, when I was feeling extremely tired and old, I asked my holistic healthcare provider if there was hope for me. His reassuring response mattered. Sometimes we need someone to help us see beyond the condition we are living with.

Begin by paying attention. Where are you under pressure? What hurt still needs care? What choices could support rest, nourishment and healthier relationships? Prayer, honest reflection and appropriate professional help can each have a place. Physical symptoms also need appropriate assessment, even when emotional stress is clearly present.

My purpose is to encourage understanding and meaningful change. We can care for the body while also addressing what is happening in the heart and mind. There is hope in learning to care for the whole person.