It is known that chronic stress and depression (a major stressor) are risk factors for cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). A study published in the journal Alzheimer’s Research & Therapy asked the question, are these risk factors additive? In other words, if you have both risk factors, does that increase your overall risk for AD? The investigators looked at more than 1.3 million individuals aged 18 to 65 years old to analyze the impact of chronic stress, depression, or both on the development of AD, other types of dementia, and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). The study ran from 2014-2022.
Key findings demonstrated increased risk for AD, MCI, and other dementia with chronic stress alone, depression alone, and the combination of the two. The researchers concluded that chronic stress and depression independently increased the risk of MCI and AD, with an additive effect when combined.
Hardly any one of us escapes episodes of stress and some degree of depression throughout our lives. BrainSavers Brain+Body Total Fitness Program places an emphasis on the recognition of these and their management via enjoyable, effective, and easily learned strategies to manage stress and improve depression. Importantly, the program provides social connection, healthy sleep, good nutritional practices, and enjoyable physical and mental exercises. Each of these can improve stress, depression, and the overall quality and enjoyment of life.
Of course, if you are experiencing stress and/or depression that is impairing your quality of life and is not improved with non-medical interventions, you should consult your doctor, psychologist, or other qualified healthcare professional.
If you are having suicidal thoughts, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). “Lifeline assists people in immediate crisis with a skilled, trained crisis worker who will listen to the problems they are experiencing and will connect them to local mental health services. All calls are confidential and free.”
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