Anxiety Might Help You Live Longer

Wise Brothers—-Chattanooga, TN

Anxiety Might Help You Live Longer

A new study shows that certain types of anxiety can actually help you live longer. Scientists looked at data from more than 400,000 people and discovered there may be two very different kinds of worriers.

The first type is the unhealthy version that’s tied to stress, mood swings, and poor mental health.

But the other type is described as having “Emotional Reactivity and Internal Stability” or “ERIS.”  It means being cautious and anxious without the emotional instability.

Folks with ERIS had a 35% lower risk of death over 15 years.  And researchers say people with ERIS were less likely to smoke and more likely to exercise.  They also tend to eat healthier and go to the doctor for preventive care.

The study found this type of worry comes from older survival instincts in the brain.  Being alert and cautious might have helped people avoid risky behavior and stay healthier over time.

So maybe your anxious friend isn’t overthinking everything.  Maybe they’re just built for survival.

Photo by Nik Shuliahin on Unsplash

Courtesy of Study Finds