What a research study on the boston marathon taught us about stress
The Hidden Toll of Watching the News: What the Boston Marathon Study Taught Us About Stress
A landmark 2013 study conducted by researchers at the University of California, Irvine revealed a surprising truth: people who consumed extensive media coverage of the Boston Marathon bombings reported higher levels of acute stress than those who were actually at the event. The study, led by E. Alison Holman, Dana Rose Garfin, and Roxane Cohen Silver, surveyed 4,675 adults across the U.S., including residents of Boston and New York. Individuals who watched six or more hours of news coverage daily in the week following the bombing reported significantly greater stress symptoms than those with limited exposure. This groundbreaking research challenged the common belief that direct exposure to traumatic events is the primary driver of stress-related disorders.
The study highlighted the powerful effect of media on our mental health. Constant exposure to emotionally charged images, dramatic headlines, and repetitive footage can condition the brain to remain in a prolonged state of fear and hypervigilance. This kind of psychological stress can disrupt sleep, increase anxiety, and even weaken the immune system. Researchers warned that such repeated exposure can lead to chronic rumination and emotional exhaustion, reinforcing the importance of managing not just what we experience in life, but also what we choose to consume.
In today’s fast-paced, media-saturated world, it’s more important than ever to prioritize real-life health and happiness. While staying informed is essential, it's just as vital to limit exposure to sensationalized news—especially following traumatic events. True well-being comes from building habits that nourish the body and calm the mind. That means spending time outdoors, laughing and connecting with friends and family, playing sports, staying active, and making space for rest and recovery. These are the moments that bring joy, resilience, and balance into our lives.
To help combat the effects of chronic stress and media overload, many people are turning to chiropractic care and therapeutic massage. These modalities work together to reset the nervous system, improve sleep, reduce anxiety, and support full-body recovery. At our clinic, we combine targeted bodywork with chiropractic adjustments to address both old injuries and daily aches and pains—helping you stay active, flexible, and pain-free. This holistic approach not only relieves tension but also promotes a deeper connection to your body, so you can focus on what really matters: living a healthy, vibrant, and fulfilling life.
In a world where mental strain is just a scroll away, taking care of your physical body has never been more essential. Whether you're recovering from an injury, dealing with stress, or just want to feel better in your own skin, regular chiropractic care and massage therapy can help restore balance. Remember: your time is better spent moving your body, playing with your kids, laughing with your partner, or exploring nature—not stuck in front of a screen absorbing fear. Invest in yourself. Move well. Live well. Be well.
Dr. M Ryan Saldivar D.C.
