THE IMPACT OF STRESS AND PSYCHOLOGICAL STATES ON HEART HEALTH

Stress and psychological conditions such as anxiety and depression have been increasingly recognized as critical factors influencing cardiovascular health. Chronic stress activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and the sympathetic nervous system, leading to elevated levels of cortisol and catecholamines. These physiological changes contribute to hypertension, inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and abnormal heart rhythms. Moreover, psychological distress is associated with unhealthy behaviors such as smoking, poor diet, and physical inactivity, further increasing the risk of heart disease. This paper reviews recent studies highlighting the mechanisms by which psychological stress affects the heart, and emphasizes the importance of stress management for cardiovascular prevention and recovery.