Psychosocial stress and cardiovascular disease: how to heal a broken heart

Compr Ther. 2004 Spring;30(1):37-43. doi: 10.1007/s12019-004-0022-2.

Abstract

Psychosocial stress induces adverse changes in autonomic tone accounting for substantial but modifiable cardiovascular risk. Various factors, including depression, social isolation, hostility and anxiety increase cardiovascular risk, whereas social support, altruism, faith and optimism reduce risk.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Autonomic Nervous System / physiopathology
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / physiopathology
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / prevention & control*
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / psychology*
  • Chronic Disease
  • Humans
  • Life Change Events
  • Religion and Medicine
  • Social Support
  • Stress, Psychological / complications*
  • Stress, Psychological / physiopathology
  • Stress, Psychological / prevention & control