Healthwatch: Can stress age your brain?
Healthy habits like exercise and sleep can protect brain health
Published: August 12, 2026 at 3:51 AM
Updated: August 12, 2026 at 6:47 AM
We all feel stressed from time to time, but did you know chronic stress can actually age your brain?
“Chronic stress is a real concern for brain health, primarily because of cortisol, what we call the stress hormone. Cortisol over time is particularly damaging to neurons, especially in areas of the brain related to memory and learning,” said Sandra Darling, DO, a preventive medicine physician at Cleveland Clinic
According to Dr. Darling, chronic stress can affect memory, make it harder to concentrate and contribute to brain fog
The good news is that there are steps you can take to help manage stress and support brain health
Dr. Darling recommends starting with a regular exercise routine, healthy diet and consistent sleep schedule
Practicing meditation and making time for activities you enjoy can also help lower stress levels
Dr. Darling said making these healthy lifestyle choices and keeping your stress in check can support your brain health today and as you age
“The good news is research has shown that people of all ages can benefit from healthy lifestyle changes,” Dr. Darling said. “Getting more exercise, meditating, managing stress and reducing alcohol consumption have all been linked to a slowing of abnormal brain changes over time.”
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or finding it difficult to manage stress, Dr. Darling said to talk with your healthcare provider
They can identify additional strategies or treatments that can help
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