In many professional cultures, there’s an unspoken expectation to be “tough,” to handle pressure without complaint. This often leads people to bottle up their stress, believing it’s a sign of strength and professionalism. However, a clinical psychologist debunks this myth, explaining that bottling up stress is one of the most damaging things you can do to your mind and body.
Stress is a form of energy. When it’s not released, it doesn’t just disappear; it gets stored in the body. This is why chronic, unexpressed stress is so strongly linked to physiological problems. It can manifest as muscle tension, high blood pressure, digestive issues, and a weakened immune system.
The “tough” professional who never shows vulnerability is often the one suffering the most internally. The effort required to maintain this facade is itself a source of stress, compounding the original problem. This can lead to a sudden and severe burnout, where the person’s coping mechanisms completely collapse.
A much healthier and more effective approach is to find safe outlets for stress. The expert strongly recommends sharing your work-related anxieties with family or trusted friends. This act of communication releases the pressure before it can build up to dangerous levels. This, along with other proactive strategies like taking breaks and setting boundaries, is a sign of true professional strength.