Adults who suffer from anxiety have a higher risk of developing dementia. But it is still possible to intervene
THE’anxiety It is a common disorder, often perceived as a transient discomfort linked to events of everyday life. However, an increasing number of research shows that it can turn into something More than a passenger malaise. If neglected, it can also have significant effects on wellness and cognitive faculties after years. In fact, some recent studies indicate a possible correlation between anxious states, especially if persistent, and a increased risk of developing dementia in old age. But be careful: it’s not a condemnation. Intervening on anxiety can prevent long -term consequences.
Anxiety and depression, what is the bond?
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Science has long investigated theAssociation between anxiety and dementiaand several studies have highlighted a particularly strong link, especially in cases of chronic anxiety. Persistent forms, in other words, seem to go hand in hand with a significant increase in the risk of developing cognitive disorders in old age. Some hypotheses suggest that anxiety may negatively impact on cardiovascular health, which is another risk factor known for dementia. Other interpretations highlight the role of stress hormones, such as cortisol, in damaging brain structures involved in memory and cognitive functions.
To this is added the fact that anxiety often coexists with other conditions, such as depression and sleep disorders, also implicated in the increase in the risk of cognitive decline. This makes it difficult to isolate a single trigger factor, but strengthens the hypothesis of a cumulative effect of more psychic and physical conditions that act synergistically in promoting the development of the disease. In some cases, anxiety represents an early alarm bell of a neurodegenerative process already underway.
Dementia and anxiety, the importance of asking for help
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If the studies confirm the role of anxiety as a potential risk factor for dementia, this would open the way to new prevention strategies, in which mental health would become an integral part of the Prevention of neurodegenerative diseases. For example, the screening of anxious states around 40, could represent a useful tool for identifying the most at risk people.
And even if anxiety can manifest itself at any age, its impact on the brain becomes more marked over the yearswhen the plasticity of the brain gradually reduces. Consequently, facing anxiety before it starts to do damage is more than a question of momentary well -being: it could prove to be an investment on future cognitive health. Anxiety therapies include, in most cases, an integrated approach that combines psychological interventions (like cognitive-behavioral therapy), pharmacological treatments And Lifestyle changes. In this perspective, sports, meditation and greater participation in social life is fundamental.
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