Does Stress Impact Your Immune System?

Have you ever known someone who was diagnosed with cancer after a period of intense stress?

A new study explores why this can happen—down to the immune system level.

Researchers analyzed immune and tumor markers in 121 women with breast cancer, along with stress levels in four areas:

✔ Daily stress

✔ Racial discrimination

✔ Social isolation

✔ Poverty conditions

The results?

Stress messed up the immune system in ways that dramatically favored cancer cells.

Also—these effects were more pronounced in black women than in white women.

I am not sharing this to spread fear. Stress is unavoidable.

But it’s also a reminder that how we respond to stress matters.

Science-backed tools like breathwork, movement, and connecting with friends can help buffer the effects of stress on the body.

❤️ Your health matters.

Take a moment today to do something that helps you feel calm and supported—even if it’s just one deep breath.

You Can't Control Everything...

Stress often comes from trying to control the uncontrollable.

So, next time stress creeps in, try this:

1️⃣ Notice you feel stressed.

Just pause and recognize what’s going on.

2️⃣ Ask: Is this inside or outside my control?

If it’s outside your control, try to let it go, but still move on to step 3.

3️⃣ Make a plan.

Choose a few things you CAN do (even if the actual stressor is outside your control).

✔ Can you go for a walk?

✔ Can you listen to music?

✔ Can you make a phone call?

✔ Can you research a solution?

Training your brain to respond to stress in a healthier way takes some practice, but it’s worth it.

Share this with a friend who can relate 💖