What form of stress ages you the most?

Monday, May 27, 2024.

As a couples therapist, I've seen firsthand how stress can permeate every aspect of our lives, affecting not only our relationships but also our physical appearance.

Among the various types of stress, financial stress seems to take the greatest toll on our looks.

A compelling study led by Professor Margie Lachman from Brandeis sheds light on this issue, revealing that financial stress accelerates the aging process more than any other type of stress.

How the study was conducted

The study tracked 200 humans over a decade, starting from the mid-1990s. Each participant had their photograph taken at the beginning and end of the study. These photos were then evaluated by 19 reviewers who assessed the apparent age of each person. The results were striking: those who experienced the highest levels of financial stress over the decade appeared the oldest.

Professor Lachman explains, “It may be that people who are under a lot of financial stress do not pay much attention to their appearance. Stress can also accelerate the aging process.” This insight is particularly relevant for couples navigating financial difficulties, as the strain can visibly manifest on one's face, adding years to their appearance.

Why financial stress ages you

Financial stress stands out as the most aging type of stress for several reasons:

Neglect of Self-Care: When financial worries dominate, people often neglect their self-care routines. They might skip skincare, proper nutrition, and exercise, all of which are crucial for maintaining a youthful appearance.

Chronic Stress: Financial stress is often chronic, lasting for years or even decades. This prolonged stress releases cortisol, a hormone that can break down collagen in the skin, leading to wrinkles and sagging.

Mental and Emotional Strain: The constant worry and anxiety associated with financial stress can cause frown lines, under-eye bags, and other signs of aging.

Study findings on perception of age

• The study also uncovered interesting findings about how people perceive their own age:

• Most people believed they looked younger than their actual age.

• Those who felt healthier also felt younger.

• Women were more likely than men to think they looked younger than they were.

• Younger individuals felt their age aligned with how others perceived them.

• Older participants generally felt younger than they appeared.

The broader impact of financial stress

As a therapist, I often see the broader impact of financial stress on relationships. Couples under financial strain might experience increased conflict, reduced intimacy, and a general decline in relationship satisfaction. This stress can create a vicious cycle where the emotional toll exacerbates the physical signs of aging, further impacting self-esteem and relationship dynamics.

Addressing financial stress in relationships

To mitigate the effects of financial stress on both your appearance and your relationship, consider these strategies:

Open Communication: Discuss financial concerns openly with your partner. Working together to create a budget and financial plan can reduce stress and foster a sense of teamwork.

Seek Professional Help: Financial advisors can provide guidance on the best practices for managing debt and planning for the future, while therapists can help address the emotional aspects of financial stress.

Self-Care: Prioritize self-care activities that reduce stress, such as exercise, proper nutrition, and mindfulness practices. Taking care of your physical health can also improve your appearance.

Set Realistic Goals: Setting achievable financial goals can provide a sense of control and accomplishment, reducing stress over time.

Final thoughts

Financial stress has a profound impact on one's appearance over time. This underscores the importance of managing this stress effectively.

Consider taking proactive steps to address financial concerns and prioritize self-care as early as possible.

If you can, you could mitigate the aging effects of stress and maintain a healthier, more youthful appearance.

As a couples therapist, I encourage you to approach financial stress as a team, supporting each other through the challenges and celebrating your progress together.

Be Well, Stay Kind, and Godspeed.