Loneliness Contributes to a Decrease in the Body’s Stress Response
A recent study has revealed that feelings of loneliness play a significant role in reducing cardiovascular responses in individuals suffering from social anxiety when exposed to stressful situations.
The findings of this study, published by PsyPost, indicate that loneliness is associated with lower blood pressure during stressful periods, which could increase long-term health risks.
The study was led by Adam O’Riordan from the University of Texas and focused on the impact of social anxiety and loneliness on cardiovascular health. It also examined how physiological stress responses influence the development of chronic illnesses, such as high blood pressure and heart disease.
The study involved 658 adults, whose levels of social anxiety and loneliness were assessed through questionnaires. The following day, participants underwent stress-inducing tests, including the Stroop test and other tasks designed to monitor cardiovascular responses.
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Although social anxiety was linked to increased stress, it did not have a direct effect on cardiovascular responses. However, loneliness was found to reduce the rise in blood pressure during stressful situations.
The results further indicated that loneliness plays a key role in the impact of social anxiety on blood pressure response. Specifically, individuals with social anxiety who experienced greater loneliness showed a weaker cardiovascular response to stress.
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Researchers highlighted that this diminished blood pressure response could also be harmful, as it may indicate a physiological system dysfunction or a tendency to withdraw from stressful situations, thereby increasing the risk of chronic health issues.
Adam O’Riordan explained that individuals with social anxiety often avoid social interactions due to fear of negative judgment, which worsens their loneliness. The study recommends addressing loneliness to improve both mental and physical health while reducing the health risks associated with isolation and anxiety.
