Severe emotional reactions may impact long-term health, study reveals

By Staff Writer

A new study in the journal Brain, Behavior and Immunity reveals that an individual's emotional response to challenging situations can predict how one's body reacts to stress.

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh asked a group of healthy middle-aged people to complete a speech in front of a video camera and a panel of judges. The investigators monitored their physical responses during the presentation and then later questioned them about their emotions.

The participants who admitted that they experienced high levels of anxiety and anger were more likely to have increased heart rate and blood pressure. The study's authors explained that this may explain why people with high levels of stress develop chronic health problems later in life.

This proves that there is most certainly a connection between psychological reactions and physical health. Thus, problem teens who frequently become angry or violent when they encounter challenges should be educated about more calm and healthy ways to deal with stress.

Adolescents who have emotional problems may benefit from wilderness therapy programs, many of which provide a tranquil environment for troubled teens.