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Stress and Cardiovascular Functioning

What is stress and how does it impact the heart?

Stress can negatively impact the heart in several ways. When you experience stress, your body releases stress hormones, such as cortisol and adrenaline, which can increase your heart rate and blood pressure. This hormone increase can cause the heart to work harder than usual, putting additional strain on the cardiovascular system. It is vital to manage stress levels to protect your heart health.

Stress is a natural physical and mental reaction to life experiences. It is the body’s way of responding to any demand or threat. When you feel threatened or overwhelmed, your nervous system releases stress hormones, including adrenaline and cortisol, which prepare the body for emergencies. This is known as the “fight or flight” response. While stress is regular, excessive or prolonged stress can negatively affect your health and well-being. Over time, chronic stress can also increase the risk of developing heart disease by contributing to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, which can lead to cardiovascular disease and impact metabolic functioning.

This post does not provide medical or clinical advice and is no substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is intended for informational purposes only. Visitors who access the post and rely on its content do so at their own risk. This post represents the opinions of the author and does not necessarily reflect the views of the foundation. If you are feeling lost or hopeless, or someone you know is feeling lost or hopeless, call the national suicide prevention hotline at (800) 273-8255.

© 2025 The Cummings Foundation for Behavioral Health. All Rights Reserved.

The Cummings Foundation for Behavioral Health

A nonprofit that pursues innovative opportunities to advance professional psychology and behavioral healthcare in ways that positively impact society. Our work honors the pioneering legacy of our founder, Dr. Nicholas Cummings.

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The Cummings Foundation for Behavioral Health
A nonprofit that pursues innovative opportunities to advance professional psychology and behavioral healthcare in ways that positively impact society. Our work honors the pioneering legacy of our founder, Dr. Nicholas Cummings.
Contacts
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