Anxiety and Depression Lower Blood Pressure: A 22-Year Study
Author Information
Author(s): Hildrum Bjørn, Romild Ulla, Holmen Jostein
Primary Institution: HUNT Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology
Hypothesis
Does a high level of anxiety and depression over time affect blood pressure?
Conclusion
Symptoms of anxiety and depression are associated with a decrease in blood pressure, especially when high levels are present over decades.
Supporting Evidence
- A high symptom level of anxiety and depression was associated with a 20% lower risk of developing hypertension.
- Participants with high anxiety and depression scores showed a significant decrease in systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
- The study used repeated assessments to strengthen the reliability of the findings.
Takeaway
If you feel anxious or sad for a long time, it might actually help keep your blood pressure lower.
Methodology
The study analyzed data from 17,410 participants in the HUNT study over 22 years, measuring anxiety, depression, and blood pressure at three time points.
Potential Biases
Potential selection bias due to participants who did not complete the study.
Limitations
Different methods of measuring blood pressure and mental symptoms were used at different time points.
Participant Demographics
Participants were aged 20-67 at baseline, with a mix of men (7888) and women (9522).
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.001
Confidence Interval
0.70 - 0.92
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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