What is the Link Between Negative Emotions and Diseases? We Also Struggled to Believe This

Many studies in recent years have explored the connection between negative emotions such as stress, anxiety, depression, and anger attacks and illnesses like heart disease, vascular diseases, and more.

The field in which these studies are conducted is called 'medical psychology,' which aims to understand the impacts of these factors and their connection to our medical and health status. One of the most fascinating studies in the field is that of Prof. Sheldon Cohen from Carnegie University, which examined how chronic stress affects the risk of developing dangerous illnesses. Participants in the study were exposed to the flu virus, and it was found that those who were under chronic stress tended to show more severe symptoms of the illness.

Based on this, Cohen established the main points of his research, which suggest that stress causes the secretion of cortisol at high levels, which impairs the functioning of the immune system.

Another of his findings is that prolonged negative emotions lead to chronic inflammation linked to heart disease, diabetes, and even cancer.

Another study conducted by researchers from Harvard University found that people who tend to be angry more often suffer more from high blood pressure, heart disease, and strokes because anger raises heart rate and blood pressure, and directly damages blood vessels in the long term.

How to Reduce the Negative Impact of Emotions on Health? Here are some ways:

1. Practicing deep breathing has been proven to reduce stress and blood pressure.

2. Regular physical activity releases endorphins, improves mood, and strengthens the immune system.

3. Quality sleep eliminates stress and inflammation.

4. Emotional therapy like mindfulness or CBT helps reduce anxiety and depression.