The effects of stress Revision

In this pp you will understand the effects of stress on the immune system, cardiovascular and mental health disorders. Plus you will answer exam questions

Cardiovascular Cardiovascular disorder refers to any disorder of the heart and circulatory system. This includes coronary heart disease known as CHD and hypertension – high blood pressure.

Cardiovascular disorders are affected by lifestyle, diet, smoking ect However, stress has become concerned in the development of disorders. There are different explanations to propose how stress might cause cardiovascular problems.

Stress activates the sympathetic branch of the autonomic nervous system, leading to a constriction of the blood vessels and a rise in blood pressure and heart rate. An increase in heart rate may wear away the lining of the blood vessels. Stress leads to increased glucose levels, leading to clumps blocking the blood vessels.

Cardiovascular disorders and anger – an acute stressor Williams conducted a study to see whether anger was linked to heart disease. Research suggested that ‘individuals who find themselves prone to anger might benefit from anger management training’. This study is reliable as it has a large sample.

Cardiovascular disorders and work- related stress (a chronic stressor) Russek looked at heart disease in medical professionals. One group of doctors was chosen as high- stress while others were classed as low-stress. Russek found heart disease was greatest among GP’s than dermatologists. This supports the view that stress is linked to heart disease.

The effects of stress on existing conditions Sheps et al (2002) conducted a crucial to show that stress can be fatal for people with existing coronary artery disease. The focused their research on volunteers with ischemia – reduced blood flow to the heart. They gave 173 men and women different psychological tests. The found: -Their blood pressure increased -In 50% of participants sections of the muscle of the left ventricle began to beat faster Of all participants 44% of those who had shown the erratic heartbeats died within 3 to 4years, compared to 18& who had not. This shows that psychological stress can dramatically increase the risk of death with poor coronary artery circulation.

Psychology in action :D Rick has been working on a major book project for the last two months. This has meant him frequently working for 12hours a day and also constantly having hiss boss on the phone asking when he would be able to meet various deadlines. Use your psychological knowledge to advise him of some of the physiological effects that working like this will have.