The Effects of Discrimination and Stress on Health

 

The Effects of Discrimination and Stress on Health

Discrimination and stress can have a negative impact on health.

Discrimination can lead to increased blood pressure and signs of cardiovascular disease, potentially through the mediation of C-reactive protein (CRP), a protein that signals widespread inflammation in the body. A study found a significant correlation between everyday discrimination and CRP levels in older African Americans (Hooley et al, 2019).

Stress can also shorten the length of telomeres

the protective end parts of chromosomes. Short telomeres have been linked to an increased risk of disease. A study found that stress reduced telomere length in mothers caring for a chronically ill child, equivalent to 10 years of aging (Hooley et al, 2019).

Research has shown that cortisol, a hormone released in response to stress, can reduce the activity of telomerase

The enzyme that maintains telomere length. Other factors that can shorten telomeres include sugar-sweetened soda, pessimism, and lack of exercise. Meditation may promote telomerase activity (Hooley et al, 2019).

These findings highlight the importance of living in a happy, healthy, and relaxed manner. By reducing stress and discrimination, we can improve our overall health and well-being.

 

References

 Hooley, J. M., Nock, M. K., & Butcher, J. N. (2019). Abnormal Psychology (18th ed.). Pearson Education (US). https://bookshelf.vitalsource.com/books/9780135191033