CAM Solutions for Work Stress 
 
 Alternative stress relief techniques, such as cognitive and relaxation therapies, may help alleviate some of the symptoms and help protect against work stress-induced hypertension (high blood pressure), a new study reports.

Researchers at the University of Milan in Italy explained that work stress may increase cardiovascular risk either indirectly, by inducing unhealthy life styles, or directly, by affecting the autonomic nervous system and arterial pressure.

Researchers hypothesized that, before any apparent sign of disease, work-related stress is already accompanied by alterations of RR (relative risk) variability profile and that a simple onsite stress management program based on cognitive restructuring and relaxation training could reduce the level of stress symptoms, revert stress-related autonomic nervous system dysregulation and lower arterial pressure.

The study compared 91 white-collar workers, enrolled at a time of work downsizing (a stress condition), with 79 healthy control subjects. Psychological profiles were assessed by questionnaires and autonomic nervous system regulation by spectral analysis of RR variability.

A simple onsite stress management program (cognitive restructuring and relaxation training) was tested in a subgroup of workers compared with a sham subgroup (sham program).

The study found that workers presented an elevated level of stress-related symptoms and an altered variability profile as compared with control subjects and these alterations were largely lowered by the stress management program, which also slightly lowered systolic arterial pressure. No changes were observed in the sham program group.

Researchers concluded that work stress is associated with unpleasant symptoms and with an altered autonomic profile. A stress management program integrating cognitive and relaxation therapy techniques may have preventive advantages for hypertension.

For more information on relaxation and cognitive therapies, please visit Natural Standard's Health & Wellness database.

Reference: 1) Lucini D, Riva S, Pizzinelli P, et al. Stress management at the worksite: reversal of symptoms profile and cardiovascular dysregulation. Hypertension. 2007 Feb;49(2):291-7. Epub 2007 Jan 8. Comment in: Hypertension. 2007 Feb;49(2):268-9.