The impact of stress on lifespan varies significantly and is influenced by several elements, including your lifestyle choices, genetic background, and how your body copes with stress. While short-term stress can actually enhance longevity by strengthening the body’s biological responses, activating protective mechanisms like molecular chaperones, prolonged stress can diminish these benefits. Chronic stress has the potential to disrupt the body’s natural compensatory responses, ultimately leading to a decrease in lifespan. Moreover, it can elevate levels of insulin, increase oxidative stress, trigger inflammation, and raise stress hormone levels. Persistent stress may contribute to various health issues, including anxiety, depression, gastrointestinal problems, and even Alzheimer’s disease.