On the contrary, reducing our stress levels is something that we should take very seriously, since chronic stress can affect the ways in which our brains function in the present, and it may seriously alter our brain health in the years to come.

FORBES: Could Stress Lead to Dementia? (Yes, But Read This Before You Panic)

Another thing thats going around is the idea that stress increases testosterone in both sexes by increasing the adrenal function.

FORBES: Women Are Happier Than Men; Testosterone To Blame

It makes sense that abused women would report worse health, given that people in stressful situations have higher levels of stress hormones, which interfere with immune function, Crawford said.

CNN: Abuse victims report long-term poor health, depression