In the ever-evolving landscape of health and wellness, the term "allostatic load" is gaining prominence. At its core, allostatic load refers to the physiological consequences of chronic exposure to fluctuating or heightened neural or neuroendocrine responses, primarily arising from stress. To put it simply, it's the wear and tear on our bodies due to chronic stress. In this article, we will unpack the significance of allostatic load, its various types, and their implications on overall health.
What a Load to Bear : Stress Within Marginalized Populations
Most people are aware of the negative impacts of stress and its ability to effect one’s mental health, physical health and ultimately affecting life expectancy. However, the inflicted impact of stress on marginalized communities continues to be overlooked. In this blog, Brittany Spencer, LCPC, explores how allostatic load impacts marginalized communities and individuals, and provides tangible ways to manage stress, cultivate awareness, and move towards positive change.