A new research delving into the quality of relationships found that people trapped in insecure attachments not only endure emotional turmoil but also appear to be at an increased risk of several chronic ailments.
A new research delving into the quality of relationships found that people trapped in insecure attachments not only endure emotional turmoil but also appear to be at an increased risk of several chronic ailments.
According to researchers, an out-of-control relationship fraught with tensions, stress and strain elevates the risk of "metabolic syndrome", which is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, including heart disease and stroke.
Lead author of the study, Dr Lachlan A. McWilliams of Canada’s Acadia University stated, "Much of the health research regarding attachment has focused on pain conditions, so we were initially surprised that some of our strongest findings involved conditions related to the cardiovascular system.”
Link between insecure relationship and health assessed
In order to understand the link between dysfunctional relationships and certain health problems, the researchers examined data on 5,645 adults aged 18 to 60 years.
Based on their relationship status, the participants were classified into secure attachments (being comfortable, depending on others, and being close to others), avoidant attachments (feeling uncomfortable, being close to others, and having difficulty trusting others) or anxious attachments (feeling reluctant about getting close to people and worrying about not being loved).
All the participants were asked to furnish details about their health with stress on problems like chronic back or neck pain, arthritis, mild or severe headaches, seasonal allergies, stroke, and heart attack.
In addition, they also disclosed whether a doctor had told them that they had heart disease, high blood pressure, asthma, chronic lung disease, diabetes, high blood sugar, ulcers, epilepsy, seizures, or cancer [abnormal cells that divide without control, which can invade nearby tissues or spread through the bloodstream and lymphatic system to other parts of the body. ] .
Outcome of the study
After taking into account their history of psychological syndrome such as depression [a mental state characterized by a pessimistic sense of inadequacy and a despondent lack of activity] , anxieties, and substance abuse, the researchers noted that an anxious attachment elevated the risk of developing cardiovascular problems, stroke, blood pressure as well as pain-related conditions like severe headaches.
Dr McWilliams stated, "These findings suggest that insecure attachment may be a risk factor for a wide range of health problems, particularly cardiovascular diseases.
“Longitudinal research on this topic is needed to determine whether insecure attachment predicts the development of cardiovascular disease and the occurrence of cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks.
“The findings also raise the possibility that interventions aimed at improving attachment security could also have positive health outcomes."
The study was published in the July issue of the Health Psychology journal.
source: themedguru
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