Examining the Stress-Mortality Link

"Aargh! This stress is killing me!"

This is not an unheard of thing to hear someone say. In fact, it's almost somewhat of a cliche' thing to announce at the end of a stressful day or while trying to play Trivial Pursuit with a more worthy opponent. It turns out that it also may be a little more true than the exclaimer may realize.

Recently, researchers from King's College London examined data that show that self-reported stress is associated with increased all-cause mortality in the next 20 years--that stress is, in fact, statistically associated with a higher risk of death from various causes. They've discussed why they believe this may be the case, and present three possible scenarios:

• The stress-mortality link may be due to stress exacerbating already-present risk factors for heart disease and cancer. For example, higher stress is linked with hypertensive heart disease here.)

• The link between stress and immunity is also discussed. A weakened immune system leaves us more susceptible to virtually all diseases and conditions. This could obviously lead us to a greater risk of mortality.

• There could be a third factor that's linked to both stress and mortality--something in the genes. We already know that some people experience stress more intensely than others, that something that wouldn't faze one person might leave another completely overwhelmed or highly stressed. These sensitivities may be linked to increased mortality.

Regardless of why stress is linked with mortality, just knowing that there is a link should be sufficient motivation to renew efforts toward effective stress management. Wherever you are in your stress management journey, these resources should help you along.

Stress Relief Resources from Elizabeth Scott:

• Develop a Stress Relief Plan That Works
  Learn about the various ways that stress can affect you, and find resources for healthy coping.
• Stress Symptom Quiz
  Might stress be affecting your health? This quiz examines various symptoms, and gives you targeted tips for stress relief.
• Ongoing Stress Relief Resources From This Site
  Free e-courses, free newsletter, RSS feeds and more--don't miss out on all this site has to offer!

Also, I invite you to stop by the Stress Management Forum and share your experiences, questions and tips.

_{Source:
Hotopf M, Henderson M, Kuh D. Invited Commentary: Stress and Mortality. American Journal of Epidemiology. July 2, 2008.}