Khaberni - A scientific study has revealed an unexpected relationship between "high blood pressure" and certain psychological traits, opening the door to a new understanding of the interplay between the body and the mind.
According to the study, high blood pressure, especially "diastolic pressure," can lead to subtle changes in personality, most notably an increase in neuroticism and stress.
A Hidden Connection Between the Heart and Mind
The study, supervised by researchers including Dr. Joachim Mullner, suggests that high diastolic pressure (the second number in a blood pressure reading) may have a direct impact on "neuroticism," a personality trait characterized by increased sensitivity, anxiety, irritability, and self-criticism, according to the French magazine "Marie France."
The researchers relied on an advanced scientific technique known as "Mendelian randomization," analyzing over a thousand genetic variables in hundreds of thousands of people to study the relationship between blood pressure and psychological traits.
What Happens Inside the Body?
When blood pressure remains high even during rest, the person is diagnosed with hypertension. Diastolic pressure indicates the phase when the heart relaxes between beats.
If it's high, the blood vessels, especially in the brain, face constant pressure, which may affect delicate neurological and psychological functions.
The researchers explain that people with a high degree of neuroticism are more prone to anxiety, anger, and stress, and may suffer from mood disorders such as depression.
They often face high levels of psychological stress, which in turn increases the risk of heart disease.
Striking Findings from the Study
The results showed that diastolic pressure is the only factor that has a clear causal effect on neuroticism, while no strong direct relationship was found between blood pressure and anxiety, depression, or happiness.
Although the study sample was mostly of European descent, the findings open the door to broader research to understand the relationship between physical health and mental health in different societies.
A Vicious Cycle Between Stress and Blood Pressure
This study confirms the existence of a complex and reciprocal relationship: stress and neuroticism can raise blood pressure, and in return, high blood pressure can increase psychological disturbances.
Dr. Mullner notes that dealing with this condition requires a comprehensive approach, combining blood pressure management with medical treatment and follow-up, stress and psychological pressure management, and lifestyle improvements "sleep, nutrition, physical activity".
High blood pressure is no longer just a physical problem affecting the heart and arteries, but it may also have profound reflections on the mental state and personality. These findings highlight the importance of dealing with health holistically, as the body cannot be separated from the mind, especially in chronic diseases such as hypertension.
Early attention to measuring and controlling blood pressure, alongside caring for mental health, could be key to avoiding serious complications, not just on the heart, but also on our way of thinking and feeling about life.
