The principles of psychoneuroimmunology, which studies the interaction between psychological processes and the nervous and immune systems, help explain how stress and anxiety can impact healing and recovery:

Suppressed Immune Function

Chronic activation of the fight or flight response can suppress the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections and slowing the healing process. For individuals dealing with illnesses related to environmental exposures, such as those triggered by mold or chemical sensitivities, this weakened immune response can exacerbate symptoms or hinder recovery.

Inflammation

Stress can increase inflammation in the body, which is a risk factor for various chronic diseases. Inflammation can also exacerbate symptoms related to environmental exposures and impede the body’s ability to repair and recover.

Delayed Healing

The diversion of resources away from non-essential functions can slow down the body’s natural healing processes. This means that recovery from environmental exposures, as well as from physical injuries or surgeries, can take longer under chronic stress.

Behavioral Changes

Stress and anxiety can lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as smoking, alcohol use, or poor diet, which can further impair the body’s ability to heal from environmental exposures.