What term describes the cumulative wear and tear on the body from chronic stress?

The term that describes the cumulative wear and tear on the body from chronic stress is allostatic load. Allostasis refers to the process by which the body achieves stability through change, particularly in response to stressors. When an individual experiences repeated or chronic stress, the physiological systems involved in the stress response—such as the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and the autonomic nervous system—are activated more frequently. Over time, this repeated activation can lead to changes that result in wear and tear on various bodily systems, which is what is termed allostatic load.

This concept is critical in understanding how chronic stress can impact health. It encompasses not only the physical changes that occur in the body, such as alterations in metabolism, immune function, and cardiovascular health, but also highlights the broader implications of stress on overall well-being. Recognizing and addressing allostatic load is essential in the management of conditions related to chronic stress, including obesity, cardiovascular disease, and mental health disorders.