Stress that lasts a few days is one thing. Stress that stretches over months, with no clear end, is another. It wears on the mind, the body, and the spirit, and many of us have lived through seasons like that, whether from illness, financial strain, a family crisis, or a world that feels uncertain.
In this article I want to explain, in plain words, what a long period of stress can do to mental health, and what you can do about it. I will also share what the Bible offers, without ever telling you that struggling means your faith is weak.
What long stress does to the body and mind
The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) explains that when stress or anxiety persists and begins to interfere with your life, “You could experience problems with sleeping, or with your immune, digestive, cardiovascular, and reproductive systems.” It can also raise the risk of anxiety disorders or depression.
The World Health Organization (WHO) says that people who are exposed to adverse circumstances are at higher risk of developing a mental health condition. It also names factors that protect: positive social interactions and strong community ties.
My view as a pastor, not a diagnosis: some worry is natural when life is uncertain. But when fear or sadness will not lift, or when it keeps you from sleeping, working, or enjoying people, it deserves care.
Anxiety and depression
Feeling anxious in a crisis is a human reaction, not a spiritual defect. Anxiety and depression can show up together or separately, and either one can make ordinary days feel heavy. Both are treatable health conditions, and you do not have to carry them in silence.
Burnout
The WHO describes burn-out as a syndrome that results from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed. It names three dimensions: feelings of energy depletion or exhaustion, increased mental distance from one’s job or feelings of negativism or cynicism about it, and reduced professional efficacy.
The WHO uses the term for the work setting, but many caregivers, parents and volunteers describe a similar exhaustion. In my view, if you feel constantly drained, irritable, or hopeless and rest does not seem to help, take it seriously and talk to someone.
Loneliness
Being cut off from the people we love hurts. The WHO reported in June 2025 that 1 in 6 people worldwide is affected by loneliness, and that lonely people are twice as likely to become depressed. Staying connected, even in small ways, is part of caring for your mental health.
A pastoral observation, not from a study: screens can help us stay in touch, but they are not always a substitute for a face, a voice, or a hug. Use them to connect, not to hide.
Eating disorders
The NIMH says: “Eating disorders are serious illnesses marked by severe disturbances in a person’s eating behaviors.” It also says they “can be treated successfully,” and that seeking help early matters. In my view, stress and isolation can make these struggles harder, so if you or someone you love is having difficulty with food or body image, please do not wait for it to pass on its own.
How to care for yourself
These are first steps, not a replacement for professional care. The NIMH suggests simple habits: “Just 30 minutes of walking every day can boost your mood and improve your health.” Eat regular meals and stay hydrated. Keep a sleep schedule. Remind yourself daily of things you are grateful for. Reach out to friends or family who can offer emotional support.
My own suggestions as a pastor: step outside when you can, pray slowly, and spend time with people who bring you peace.
When to ask a professional for help
The NIMH advises seeking professional help if you are experiencing severe or distressing symptoms that have lasted 2 weeks or more, such as losing interest in things you usually enjoy or having trouble sleeping. A good first step is to talk with your primary care provider.
Counseling and psychotherapy offer a safe place to understand what you are facing and to build coping skills. Asking for help is not weakness. It is caring for the life God entrusted to you.
Drawing near to God
For me, the most important step is to draw near to God. Recognize him as your Creator and Savior, set aside time to read the Bible, pray, and tell him your worries. Paul writes: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7, NIV)
This is not a command to feel nothing. It is an invitation to bring everything to him. David also knew the weight of worry: “When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.” (Psalm 94:19, NIV) Praying and getting professional help are not opposites; they can go together.
What is one small thing you could do this week to care for your mind and your heart?
Would you like to talk with a professional? Call (407) 559-7093 (Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern) or find professional help here. For general questions that are not an emergency, write to drduany@zodugroup.com. Please do not send health information by email.
This article is for education only. It does not offer diagnosis or personal advice, does not replace evaluation or treatment by a health professional, and reading it or writing to us through this site does not create a therapeutic or pastoral counseling relationship. This site is not an emergency service and is not monitored continuously: do not send health information through comments or public forms. The author is a licensed psychotherapist and pastor, and is part of ZODU.
Sources
- National Institute of Mental Health. (n.d.). I’m so stressed out! Fact sheet. NIMH. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/so-stressed-out-fact-sheet
- National Institute of Mental Health. (2026, April). Caring for your mental health. NIMH. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/caring-for-your-mental-health
- National Institute of Mental Health. (2024, December). Eating disorders. NIMH. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/eating-disorders
- World Health Organization. (2026, September 11). Mental health. WHO. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-health-strengthening-our-response
- World Health Organization. (2019, May 28). Burn-out an “occupational phenomenon”: International Classification of Diseases. WHO. https://www.who.int/news/item/28-05-2019-burn-out-an-occupational-phenomenon-international-classification-of-diseases
- World Health Organization. (2025, June 30). Social connection linked to improved health and reduced risk of early death. WHO. https://www.who.int/news/item/30-06-2025-social-connection-linked-to-improved-heath-and-reduced-risk-of-early-death
- New International Version. (2011). Philippians 4:6-7. BibleGateway. https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Philippians+4%3A6-7&version=NIV
- New International Version. (2011). Psalm 94:19. BibleGateway. https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+94%3A19&version=NIV
Scripture quotations taken from The Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used with permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
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