Poor decision-making can wreck the body. Consistently making unhealthy lifestyle choices, like neglecting sleep or relying on substances like alcohol or caffeine, elevates stress levels, leading to the release of cortisol (the stress hormone). This, in turn, creates a feedback loop where stress drives poor decisions, increasing stress (again).
Better choices mean less stress, and less stress equals better health, which means we’ll probably live longer. If we’ve made many poor life choices, then we’re probably feeling chronic stress, which can provide the following adverse effects:

Impaired Cognitive Performance: High cortisol levels impair cognitive functions like memory and concentration.
Blood Sugar Imbalance: Chronic cortisol release leads to elevated blood sugar levels, increased appetite, and weight gain, particularly around the abdomen.
Lowered Immune Function: Prolonged exposure to cortisol suppresses the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections.
Mental Health: Extended periods of high cortisol are associated with an increased risk of mental health issues like depression and anxiety.
Digestive Problems: Chronic stress and cortisol can disrupt the digestive system, leading to problems like acid reflux, indigestion, or irritable bowel syndrome.
Sleep Disturbances: High cortisol levels, particularly at night, can lead to difficulty falling and staying asleep.

Over time, poor decision-making and excess cortisol lead to serious health issues. It highlights the importance of managing stress and making better decisions. Techniques like healthy lifestyle choices, effective stress management strategies, and seeking support when needed can help break this cycle.