Which of the following best explains how exhaustion and fatigue can impact a new mother's sense of well-being in relation to stress and immune function?

• A. Exhaustion and fatigue only affect physical health, not psychological well-being, in new mothers.
• B. Exhaustion and fatigue can increase stress levels, which may suppress immune function and negatively affect a new mother's overall well-being.
• C. Exhaustion and fatigue have no significant effect on stress or immune function in new mothers.
• D. Exhaustion and fatigue always improve immune function by forcing the body to rest.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the relationship between exhaustion, fatigue, and stress. Recognize that exhaustion and fatigue are physical states that can increase psychological stress levels, especially in new mothers who face multiple demands.
2. Step 2: Explore how increased stress affects the body, particularly the immune system. Stress triggers the release of stress hormones like cortisol, which can suppress immune function, making the body more vulnerable to illness.
3. Step 3: Connect the impact of suppressed immune function to overall well-being. When immune function is compromised, a new mother may experience poorer health, which can further exacerbate feelings of fatigue and stress, creating a negative feedback loop.
4. Step 4: Evaluate the incorrect options by contrasting them with established psychological and physiological research. For example, understand why exhaustion does not only affect physical health but also psychological well-being, and why it does not improve immune function by simply forcing rest.
5. Step 5: Summarize that exhaustion and fatigue increase stress, which suppresses immune function and negatively impacts a new mother's overall well-being, making this the best explanation among the options provided.