Mario Boskis, cardiologist, on the management of emotions in adults: "Everything that starts in the mind goes down to the body"

Mario Boskis, a cardiologist and expert in longevity, warned during an interview that emotional stress has become a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. He emphasized how prolonged emotional strain can lead to physical consequences, stating, “Everything that begins in the mind affects the body.” This remark comes amid growing public interest in mental health and its tangible effects on overall well-being. The discussion took place during an interview with La Nación plus, where Boskis explained that chronic stress is no longer just a psychological issue, it has evolved into one of the leading causes of heart-related problems. Recent studies, he noted, show that chronic stress can almost double the likelihood of suffering a heart attack. The doctor described the process as akin to a boxer delivering repeated blows until the body finally breaks down. Boskis outlined several common symptoms associated with chronic stress, including palpitations, sleep disturbances, frequent headaches, and changes in daily habits. He stressed that these signs often go unnoticed by individuals themselves, making early detection difficult. In some cases, the condition can be mistaken for more severe conditions such as panic attacks. Patients might experience chest pain and believe they are having a cardiac emergency, which underscores the importance of medical consultation to rule out serious issues. According to data cited by Boskis, Argentina has nearly 49 percent of adults who feel stressed, placing the country at the top globally in this regard. However, not all individuals experiencing stress face the same level of cardiovascular risk. The doctor emphasized the need to identify which individuals among those under stress actually exhibit harmful physiological responses. He further explained the biological mechanisms behind stress-induced damage. Acute stress triggers the release of adrenaline and noradrenaline, preparing the body to respond to immediate threats. But when this state persists over time, it leads to the continuous secretion of cortisol. This hormone contributes to elevated blood pressure, increased blood sugar levels, weight gain, and damage to blood vessels. Chronic stress, according to Boskis, compromises the endothelial lining of arteries, causing inflammation and potentially leading to blockages. Comparing the risks, Boskis stated that the impact of chronic stress is comparable to traditional risk factors such as high cholesterol and hypertension. He highlighted an intriguing observation: there is a higher incidence of heart attacks on Mondays and Sundays at night, which he linked to psychosocial stress related to the start of the workweek. Boskis concluded his remarks by reinforcing his earlier analogy: “Chronic stress is like a boxer who keeps hitting gradually until the body can no longer withstand the blows.” His comments underscore the urgent need for greater awareness and proactive management of emotional well-being to prevent serious health complications.