Scientific Evidence That Anxiety Can Shorten Life

Worry and sadness, which are among the symptoms of anxiety or depression, are a measure of the mental dimension of health. Studies show that psychological distress - even at relatively low levels - is associated with an increased risk of death.

Anxiety (Worry) describes a state of intense inner distress, restlessness, unease and worry that is not easily relieved. Depression is a condition lasting at least two weeks and impairing people's lives and functioning through its severity and intensity, consisting of a group of depression symptoms .

Although studies have not proved a direct link between anxiety or depression and people's deaths, they show that even mild distress wears people down, making it difficult to sleep at night or concentrate on tasks. People experiencing these complaints were found, compared with those without them, to have a likelihood of dying over a 10-year period that was %20 higher.

Contributing to this outcome are unhealthy habits such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, which are common among people with anxiety and depression, as well as reduced exercise, weight gain and the development of diabetes.

Anxiety, Depression and Risk of Death

BMJ published a study in which researchers, between 1994-2004, collected information about anxiety and depression symptoms among adults older than 35, totaling more than 68.000 participants in the Health Survey for England. They compared this information with death reports for participants who died. The most frequent causes of death, in order, were heart disease, stroke, cancer, accidents and injuries. Mortality rates were higher among those with higher depression and anxiety scores.

In the study;

• A person with mild anxiety was found to have a %29 higher risk of heart disease and stroke than someone without anxiety. However, an increase in cancer risk with mild anxiety wasnotobserved.
• Those with moderate anxiety were found to have a % 43 higher risk of death from any cause; those with high levels of anxiety had a % 94 greater risk of dying than those without anxiety.

Like previous studies, this study showed that depression is a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases and all-cause mortality. Meditation and similar relaxation exercises have been observed to improve hypertension and heart disease risk factors, but the contribution of stress reduction to decreasing the likelihood of dying from heart disease and extending human life hasnotbeen clearly demonstrated.

Nevertheless, we should strive to experience less stress and protect our health. Moving away from negative habits, exercising, art therapies and practicing other techniques such as meditation will benefit people living with anxiety or depression.

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