Stress and aging perspectives. Psychological and neuro-psychological interventions

Abstract

"Aging is partially modulated by the interactions between genes and the environment, but an important part of aging and longevity comes from the psychological area. Chronic (traumatic) psychological stress has multiple effects on health (Vasile & Albu, 2011) and, implicitly, on longevity. Several hormones (cortisol, glucocorticoids, CRH, ACTH), genetic expressions (ANK3), or reactions (inflammation, upper respiratory symptoms) are activated under the influence of psychological stress and cause major disorders of the body, premature aging, culminating in serious illness and even the death. Chronic psychological stress is present in many people in today's society, and its appearance is accompanied by various epigenetic elements. Studies to date suggest effective ways to reduce stress and prevent premature aging: psychotherapy and personal development (Vasile, 2012), transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) – from a neuropsychology view, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), forest therapy - forest bath, diet, fitness, music therapy and physical therapy. At the same time, however, a multiaxial psychological evaluation is needed, as well as medical evaluation, which will make the intervention more efficient for rebalancing and regaining health. "