Stress and Cardiovascular Health: Understanding the Connection and Management Techniques

Negative states that persist over time can have harmful effects on the cardiovascular system. Andrei Alexandrescu, psychotherapist, was the guest of Mihail Pautov, specialist doctor, in episode 9, of season 7, at MediCOOL. Read about the link between stress and cardiovascular disease.

Andrei Alexandrescu talked about how stress acts in the body, mentioned the individual peculiarities of reactions to stress, offered tips to manage negative states and explained how you can learn to solve them.

The link between stress and cardiovascular disease

There is a connection between stress and cardiovascular disease, so it is very important to pay attention to the changes that are happening in the body and at the mental level. From a medical point of view, there is an axis. It’s called the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal and it’s very important in managing stress and the hormones that are related to it. The problems caused by stress are not limited to the action of these hormones, but it is very useful to know biochemically and physiologically how they work.

ARTICLE CONTINUES AFTER ADVERTISEMENT

In general, stress feels very different to each person’s body. It is a subjective component of each individual.

“Each person feels stress differently or the causes of stress are different.”

– Mihail Pautov, specialist doctor

Stress is a reaction of the body. In general, stressors cause stress states. Each person perceives stress in a very specific way, which can be caused by several aspects, such as: work, romantic relationships, social life or friends.

-Is it possible that you no longer react as stressfully to these factors?
-First of all, thoughts play a major role. It is up to each person to control their own thoughts, precisely to change the way they react to stressors. Anyone can write at home in a journal. Even though it is a very simple and well-known method, it helps you turn your thoughts into objects so that you spend less time in your head.

The problem of stress is based on thoughts that come from the subconscious or unconscious. People focus on themselves more time and create that negative state in the body.

Methods of managing stress states

The link between stress and cardiovascular disease can be prevented. The journaling technique is very effective, but it can often become difficult to apply. For example, it can be as difficult to incorporate into your routine as quitting smoking or managing weight problems associated with obesity.

“I recommend people to write a diary. I know how important it is.”

– Mihail Pautov, specialist doctor

If a person happens to have automatic behavior for several years of his life, generates stress states and creates his own life based on old experiences, it is very unlikely that by applying simple short-term techniques solve all problems. At the same time, some of the people who experience stressful situations suffer from sleep disorders.

Breathing techniques can also be addressed. But, they are not effective while you suffer from anxiety states or feel an acute stress level. Most people find it difficult to apply these types of techniques if they have these negative states. For this reason, it is usually performed at home.

“When it comes to breathing exercises, mindfulness or yoga, there are a lot of people who report that they have been doing these things for years, but nothing has changed. The basis of psychology is belief in general, thought, what we believe and personal philosophies. Until we change those, and that’s where we need time, the stress is still going to come.”

– Andrei Alexandrescu, psychotherapist

You have here all the editions of the 7th season of MediCOOL, a show broadcast by Antena 1 and available online exclusively in AntenaPLAY.

The information presented in this article is not a substitute for medical advice. Ask your doctor for advice on diagnosis and treatment.

Ladies and gentlemen, gather ’round! We’re about to dive headfirst into an article that connects stress with cardiovascular disease—the latest documentary sponsored by “Why is my heart racing?” And what better way to kick it off than with a good old-fashioned chat about stress? You know, that delightful little companion that loves to tag along wherever you go. Don’t worry; it’s just the leading cause of popcorn consumption. It’s not just in your head, folks; it’s also apparently in your arteries!

So, in this riveting episode of MediCOOL, our guest Andrei Alexandrescu, a psychotherapist who’s probably seen more tangled minds than a Netflix algorithm, sits down with Mihail Pautov, a specialist doctor who is no stranger to the human body… or quite frankly, the human mess! Now, they discuss the intricacies of stress and its devious ties to cardiovascular health. Just what we need, eh? As if Monday mornings weren’t already enough of a headache!

The link between stress and cardiovascular disease

It turns out our bodies have a little stress axis—no, not the one you used to ace high school! This one’s called the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, a mouthful that sounds like a challenge at a spelling bee. And trust me, it plays a huge role in how stress affects us. Essentially, it’s a biochemical rollercoaster that even the most intrepid of heart surgeons would have reservations about! What do you say we strap in, folks?

What’s astonishing is that stress isn’t a “one size fits all” kind of deal. Oh no! According to our doc Mihail, it’s as unique as your great-aunt Margaret’s collection of porcelain cats. Each person feels stress differently—some might get sweaty palms, others might develop a twitch so bad it looks like they’re auditioning for a role in a horror film!

“Each person feels stress differently or the causes of stress are different.”

– Mihail Pautov, specialist doctor

Let’s get real: Work, relationships, social life—it’s a merry-go-round that would make even the most seasoned mathematician dizzy. Stress is simply our bodies having a bit of a drama queen moment. And how do we cope? Apparently, writing in a journal can help. Yes, you heard that correctly! Suddenly, your old diary from middle school might just become the best stress-buster you never knew you needed. Or it might just become a treasure trove for potential blackmail material. Who knows?

Methods of managing stress states

Now, let’s get into the juicy bit—managing that elusive beast we call stress. Journaling seems like the go-to technique. It’s just you, your thoughts, and the faint sounds of your sanity slipping away as you confront your innermost feelings. It could be as hard as giving up cake, or as easy as pie. After all, who doesn’t want the chance to look back on their melodramatic musings from last Tuesday? But let’s be honest, for some, writing a journal is about as easy as herding cats.

“I recommend people to write a diary. I know how important it is.”

– Mihail Pautov, specialist doctor

If you’ve developed automatic behaviors over the years—like binge-watching a show instead of facing your problems—shifting gears may feel as impossible as teaching a goldfish to ride a bicycle! Stress management techniques like breathing exercises are on the list, but here’s the catch: they usually work better when you’re not drowning in anxiety like a cat in a bathtub.

“When it comes to breathing exercises, mindfulness or yoga, there are a lot of people who report that they have been doing these things for years, but nothing has changed.”

– Andrei Alexandrescu, psychotherapist

So, folks, the clock is ticking, and while stress is always looming overhead like an unwanted cloud at a picnic, there are ways to tackle it. Just remember, whether you choose journaling, meditation, or simply shouting at your GoT box set, you’ve got options! Just don’t forget—before making any drastic changes, a quick chat with your doctor is always advised. Because hey, it’s their job to help you navigate this wild ride called life!

And remember, my friends, laughter may be the best medicine, but it won’t replace your heart medication. Let’s not forget the basics!

What are some effective journaling⁤ techniques for ​managing ‌stress?

Simple as jotting down your worries or reflecting on‌ your day. But⁤ wait, there’s more!​ Because if writing isn’t your ⁤forte, you might want to try some ‍breathing ⁢exercises—or⁤ the age-old technique of counting to ten. Although, ⁢let’s⁤ be honest, sometimes counting can⁢ feel more ⁢stressful than the actual⁣ stress itself!

Then there’s the world of physical⁢ activity! Exercise is touted as ​a fantastic way ​to‌ blow off steam ‍and ​keep‌ that ticker of yours‍ in tip-top shape. Whether it’s yoga, jogging, or⁣ an intense workout ⁣that leaves you⁢ feeling‌ like a badass, simply moving your body can reduce those pesky stress hormones. Plus, it’s a good excuse⁤ to ​wear those cute gym ‌clothes you bought but never ⁢got around to ⁤using—talk about an unforeseen win-win!

And let’s not‌ overlook‌ the power of connection. Sometimes, all it takes is a good chat with a friend, or a heartwarming hug to chase away the clouds of stress. But remember, not all heroes wear capes; some come armed with a⁢ bottle of wine and the latest rom-com to binge-watch with you on your couch!

Conclusion

So, dear readers, as we⁣ wrap ‍up this whirlwind tour of stress and its sneaky connections to cardiovascular⁢ disease, let’s take a moment​ to ‍breathe deeply‌ and appreciate the importance of⁢ managing stress effectively. Remember, it’s‌ not just about surviving the chaos of‍ life; it’s about thriving amidst it! Whether it’s through journaling, exercising, laughing​ over a glass of​ wine with friends, or finding ‍your own unique coping mechanisms, take the stressful experiences of life ​and use them as stepping stones to a healthier you.

And as always, this comedic journey ‍through the science of stress isn’t ‍a replacement ‌for professional medical advice. ⁤Consult your ​healthcare ⁣provider to⁢ discover the best strategies for⁤ your well-being! Until next time, keep ‍your hearts healthy and your stress ⁤levels low.