Stress and health

Michele M. Larzelere, Department of Family Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center-New Orleans, 200 West Esplanade Avenue, Suite 412, Kenner, LA 70065, USA. mlarze@lsuhsc.edu
Glenn N. Jones

Abstract

The impact of stress on physical functioning (endocrine, gastrointestinal, immune, and cardiovascular systems) is reviewed. The effect of stress on psychiatric functioning and health behaviors also is discussed. The importance of stress screening in primary care is emphasized, and several methods of stress reduction (including exercise, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and mindfulness-based stress reduction) appropriate to primary care settings are described.