Exploring the Neurobehavioral Nexus Between Psychological Stress and Cardiovascular Risk Across Clinical Settings
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Abstract
This literature-based review investigates the relationship between psychological stress and cardiovascular health, emphasizing both biological mechanisms and intervention strategies. Psychological stress activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and sympathetic nervous system, resulting in elevated cortisol levels, increased catecholamine release, and systemic inflammation. These physiological disruptions contribute to hypertension, endothelial dysfunction, and arrhythmic tendencies, all of which elevate cardiovascular risk. The review highlights how chronic stress influences health behavior, sleep patterns, and treatment adherence, thereby compounding cardiac burden. It also explores validated stress-reduction interventions, including mindfulness-based techniques, cognitive-behavioral therapy, social support systems, and structured exercise programs. Evidence from clinical trials suggests these interventions improve autonomic balance, reduce inflammatory markers, and enhance psychological resilience. Additionally, gender, socioeconomic status, and early life trauma modulate the effects of stress on cardiac outcomes. The synthesis concludes that managing psychological stress is vital for cardiovascular prevention and recommends integrated therapeutic models. A recalibration of clinical guidelines may be necessary to include psychosocial assessment and stress-targeted treatment as core components of cardiovascular care. Addressing both systemic and behavioral dimensions of stress will contribute to more equitable and sustainable cardiac health outcomes.
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