Stressful Home Life Can Make You Sick

By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - There has been a great deal of conversation about the domestic issues in the NFL. Sadly, the problem is not just a problem in professional sports. In fact, sports are a microcosm of society.

Domestic abuse can be scarring and there is definitely an impact on children that can be lifelong. But any stressful impact in family dynamics can impact kids.

Stressful family situations have a very logical impact on the body - it leads to elevated levels of stress hormones and the future development of health problems.

What is very interesting is that studies are done by measuring stress hormones in saliva. Higher levels have been linked to many different mental and physical health problems.

The take home message is the need to get help for psychological issues.