Dr. Dorothy McCoy tells us that when we worry, which often accompanies trauma, our body begins to pump out an array of chemicals (such as adrenaline) that increase the flow of blood and oxygen to the brain and skeletal muscles. Blood also clots faster, ready to repair any injuries sustained in the “fight or flight” response.

Individuals under stress or worry often are keyed up with nothing to fight or flee from and therefore have no way to turn off the stress chemicals. Instead they become a ticking bomb that is not allowed to explode and they consequently implode. If this happens frequently or over a long period of time, it can have a serious effect on one’s health.

Every system in the body is affected by worry. In addition to raising blood pressure and increasing blood clotting, worry can prompt the liver to produce more cholesterol, all of which can raise the risk of heart attack and stroke. Muscle tension can give rise to headaches, back pain, and other body aches. Worry can also trigger an increase in stomach acid and either slow or speed up muscle contractions in the intestines, which can lead to stomach aches, constipation, diarrhea, gas or heartburn.

Worry can affect the skin as a rash or itch. It can also impact the respiratory system and aggravate asthma. Growing evidence even suggests that chronic worry can compromise the immune system, making one more vulnerable to bacteria, viruses, and perhaps even cancer.

In order to break the habit of worry Dale Carnegie counsels us to:

    1. Keep Busy.
    2. Don’t fuss about trifles.
    3. Use the law of averages to outlaw your worries.
    4. Cooperate with the inevitable.
    5. Decide just how much anxiety a thing may be worth and refuse to give it more.
    6. Don’t worry about the past.

    Principles from How to Stop Worrying and Start Living