[0:01] Stress – it’s something we all deal with, but for night shift workers it can feel like an ever-present challenge. And while society often normalizes being stressed, the truth is unmanaged stress takes a toll on your health in ways that go beyond feeling overwhelmed.

[0:22] Functional medicine sees stress as more than a state of mind – it’s a physiological experience that affects every system in your body. Let’s talk about how stress works, how it impacts your nervous system, and why managing it is essential for long-term health.

[0:42] Your body is wired to respond to stress through the nervous system, specifically the autonomic nervous system which has two main branches. The sympathetic nervous system, often called the fight or flight system. It kicks in when you perceive a threat, real or imagined. It’s great for short bursts of energy and focus, but when activated too often it can wear down your body.

[1:11] The parasympathetic nervous system, known as rest and digest. This system helps your body recover and restore balance after stress.

[1:20] For night shift workers, chronic stress often means the sympathetic system stays stuck in overdrive. This can lead to elevated cortisol levels, disrupted digestion, poor immune function, and even difficulties in regulating emotions. Functional medicine recognizes this imbalance as a key area to address.

[1:48] Unmanaged stress doesn’t just make you feel frazzled – it can manifest in serious health issues like hormonal dysregulation. Stress floods your system with cortisol, which over time can disrupt your sleep-wake cycle, appetite and energy levels. For night shift workers, this creates a double burden as your circadian rhythm is already under strain.

[2:18] Chronic stress triggers systemic inflammation, which is linked to conditions like heart disease, autoimmune disorders, and even chronic pain. Functional medicine views inflammation as a root cause of many health issues, making stress management a top priority.

[2:37] And have you ever noticed an upset stomach when you’re stressed? That’s because the gut and brain are deeply connected. Stress can alter gut motility, reduce nutrient absorption, and even affect your microbiome – the community of beneficial bacteria that supports immunity and mood.

[3:04] While stress is often dismissed as normal, the truth is it has far-reaching consequences if left unchecked. Functional medicine emphasizes that managing stress isn’t just about feeling better – it’s about protecting your long-term health.

[3:21] Addressing stress reduces your risk for chronic diseases and supports overall resilience.

[3:29] Enhancing recovery – a well-regulated nervous system improves your ability to bounce back from challenges both physically and mentally.

[3:40] And improving quality of life – when stress is managed, you’re better able to enjoy life even when working unconventional hours.

[3:48] Stress is more than a mental burden – it’s a full body experience that impacts your health in profound ways. Functional medicine gives us a lens to see stress not as something to tough out but as an opportunity to restore balance and resilience. By understanding how stress affects the nervous system and why it’s so important to manage it, you can start taking small steps towards a healthier, more balanced life.