Stroke Risk Increased By Stress And Depression

Stroke Risk Increased By Stress And Depression

A recent study shows that psychological distress can have serious health repercussions and can even increase the risk of suffering a stroke.

Psychological distress can be characterized by many things but is mainly defined by depression, stress, a negative outlook and neurosis.

More than 4000 people were followed for stroke and death rates in the 10 year old study. Participants we’re of more advanced ages with the average age being 77 and the group consisting of 62% women and 61 % African American. The study shows that people who are seriously distressed are three times more likely to die from a stroke and have a 54 percent chance to have their first hospitalization thanks to a stroke.

“People should be aware that stress and negative emotions often increase with age… Family members and caregivers need to recognize these emotions have a profound effect on health.” said Susan Everson-Rose, Ph. D., study senior and professor of medicine.

Distress was measured by 4 indicators: perceived stress, life dissatisfaction, neuroticism and depressive symptoms. Interviews took place with the participants in homes in three neighborhoods in Chicago representing African-Americans and Caucasians from the same socio-economic level.

“It’s important to pay attention when older people complain of distress and recognize that these symptoms have physical effects on health outcome and clearly affect stroke risk.” Dr. Rose also said.

Posted by George Daniels on Friday December 14 2012, 3:37 AM EST. Ref: ScienceCodex. All trademarks acknowledged. Filed under Health. Comments and Trackbacks closed. Follow responses: RSS 2.0