The Latest Findings Between Stress and Stroke

A long time ago, I made a gargantuan mistake. And that mistake (it involves a crazy guy, so don’t ask) gave me ultimate stress, and then, I got a stroke. I was finished–depressed, suicidal, terminated. The stroke aftereffects continue to this day, and of course, depressed, suicidal, terminated–none at all, but stress, albeit less of it, goes along with it. 

So there is a bidirectional relationship that experiencing a stroke can itself trigger significant psychological stress, leading to anxiety and depression, sometimes the need to commit suicide, which further complicates recovery.

The impact on stroke severity and recovery with a history of constant stress may experience more strokes due to a overwrought immune system. On the other hand, post-stroke stress can further delay recovery by worsening inflammation and delaying the brain’s healing process. So either way, I was screwed until many years later.

The latest studies are showing how stress and stroke interact, suggesting that stress not only increases stroke risk but also decides recovery acceptable outcomes. Here are some of the latest findings:

• Constant stress can lead to high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, and inflammation—all known risk factors for stroke.
• Elevated stress hormones like cortisol can damage blood vessels, elevating the likelihood of an ischemic event.
• Individuals looking at high levels of stress before a stroke may suffer more severe outcomes, as their bodies are already stimulated for an inflated inflammatory experience.
• Following a stroke, ongoing stress can delay recovery by further promoting
  inflammation and impairing neuroplasticity, the ability for the brain to rewire itself.
• Chronic stress can fragment the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis [1], leading to an hyperactive inflammatory response that may worsen brain injury following a stroke.

• Combining cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and other stress reduction techniques in rehabilitation programs has shown hope in improving the aftermath.

• Incorporating techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and other stress reduction methods into rehabilitation programs shows hope for improving recovery.

Here are several strategies that can help reduce stress:

• Organizing your day and setting common-sense goals can help lower feelings of “too much to bear.” 

• Prioritizing a steady sleep schedule and establishing a peaceful bedtime routine can improve sleep quality, which in turn helps manage stress levels.

• Practices like meditation or deep breathing exercises can help you focus on the present moment, reducing anxiety and stress.
• Consider activities like progressive muscle relaxation, listening to calming music, or engaging in hobbies that you enjoy as ways to unwind and relax.
• Spending time with supportive friends, family, or joining a community group can provide emotional support and a sense of belonging, which is crucial for stress management.
• Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can have a positive impact on your mood and energy levels, helping to combat stress.

As Marianne Williamson, author, lecturer, an political activist, once said, “The number one root of all illness, as we know, is stress.”

I hope this blog entry makes a difference in how you regard stress. I’m betting on it!

[1] Hypothalamus: The hypothalamus is a structure deep within your brain. Your hypothalamus keeps your body in a balanced state with regard to body temperature, hunger, mood and many other functions. It does this by directly influencing your autonomic nervous system or managing hormones.

Pituitary gland: The pituitary gland is a small, pea-sized gland located at the base of your brain below your hypothalamus. It makes several essential hormones and regulates other endocrine glands. The anterior pituitary, specifically, is part of the HPA axis.

Adrenal glands: Adrenal glands are small, triangle-shaped glands on top of each of your kidneys. They produce certain hormones that help regulate several important bodily functions. The adrenal cortex, specifically, is part of the HPA axis.