Medical experts have known for a long time that high levels of ongoing stress can lead to heart problems and other physical ailments. Now, Cleveland Clinic Wellness reports on research suggesting that stress is bad for your mental health, too:

In a recent study, middle-aged adults who had higher levels of the stress-related hormone cortisol did worse on tasks that involved memory and brain functions compared with those who had lower levels of cortisol, and they also showed brain shrinkage.

The clinic notes that it is possible to reduce your stress levels in a number of different ways — like exercising regularly, taking up yoga or meditation, and getting enough sleep. It’s also a good idea just to make sure you get up during the workday and walk around, getting outside if possible.