THE IMPACT OF PSYCHOLOGICAL FACTORS ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF HYPERTENSION

Abstract

Hypertension remains a leading cause of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality worldwide. While traditional risk factors such as genetic predisposition, diet, and obesity are well established, psychosocial influences have emerged as significant contributors to hypertension risk. This review synthesizes evidence from epidemiological, experimental, and naturalistic studies examining the roles of psychological traits, social isolation, social support, and stress responsivity. Consistent findings highlight the detrimental effects of anger suppression, chronic stress exposure, and low social support on blood pressure regulation. Furthermore, exaggerated cardiovascular reactivity to stress, particularly in the presence of persistent environmental demands, predicts hypertension onset and target organ damage. These psychosocial pathways are mediated through sympathetic and neuroendocrine activation and may be compounded by maladaptive health behaviors. Incorporating psychosocial determinants into comprehensive models of hypertension is essential for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies.