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Research with over 400,000 people reveals that a specific type of anxiety may be associated with a lower risk of death, better lifestyle habits, and a greater pursuit of preventive care
For a long time, anxiety was seen only as a mental health problem that harms quality of life and increases the risk of diseases. However, a new scientific study challenges this traditional view and points to a completely different scenario. The information was released by “Science Bulletin,” according to research conducted by scientists from the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Beijing Normal University, bringing a new perspective on the impact of anxiety on health and longevity.
According to the survey, which analyzed personality data from over 400,000 people, not all anxiety is negative. On the contrary, a specific type of anxious profile may be directly linked to significant health benefits. Thus, the relationship between worry and well-being is now seen from a new angle.
Furthermore, the results show that certain emotional patterns can directly influence daily behaviors and decisions, which consequently impacts long-term health.
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What is the ERIS profile and why might it protect health
Researchers identified a profile called ERIS, an acronym for Emotional Reactivity and Internal Stability. This pattern is characterized by high levels of worry, but with low emotional instability.
In other words, individuals with high ERIS frequently feel anxiety and worry, but do not exhibit intense mood swings or emotional crises typical of classic neuroticism. Therefore, this combination creates a more balanced behavior in everyday situations.
As a result, the study revealed that people with this profile have a 35% lower risk of death, in addition to lower rates of various lifestyle-related diseases. This data is noteworthy because it breaks the idea that all anxiety is harmful.
Furthermore, instead of treating neuroticism as a single trait, scientists divided this behavior into two main categories. In this way, they were able to identify a more harmful type and another potentially beneficial one, such as ERIS.
Consequently, this new approach allows for a deeper understanding of how personality influences physical and mental health.
Anxiety can lead to healthier habits and greater prevention
Another important point revealed by the study is related to the behavior of these individuals in their daily lives. Individuals with a high ERIS level tend to adopt healthier habits naturally.
For example, these individuals are less likely to smoke or expose themselves to unnecessary risks. Furthermore, when they do smoke, they have a higher chance of successfully quitting the habit. At the same time, they show a greater tendency to engage in moderate physical exercise.
In addition, these individuals also more frequently seek preventive medical care. That is, they undergo examinations, consultations, and actively monitor their health.
In this way, moderate anxiety acts as a constant alert mechanism, encouraging more conscious decisions. Therefore, instead of paralyzing, it functions as a protection system.
The role of the brain in the relationship between anxiety and longevity
To better understand this phenomenon, scientists also analyzed the functioning of these individuals’ brains. Examinations revealed greater activity in subcortical structures, such as the amygdala, hippocampus, thalamus, and cerebellum.
These regions are responsible for basic fear responses and threat perception. In other words, they are areas of the brain that help the body identify risks and react quickly to dangerous situations.
Consequently, people with high ERIS have a more active threat recognition system. This means they tend to avoid risks more efficiently, reducing behaviors detrimental to health.
On the other hand, individuals with classic **neuroticism** show greater activity in regions linked to emotional regulation and self-monitoring. However, these areas may be less effective in controlling negative emotions, which can lead to detrimental effects.
Therefore, the difference between the two profiles is not in the presence of anxiety, but in how it is processed and utilized by the brain.
A new way of looking at anxiety
Given these results, it is evident that anxiety should not be seen merely as a problem. On the contrary, when balanced, it can transform into a powerful tool to promote health and longevity.
Furthermore, the study reinforces the importance of understanding different emotional profiles, instead of generalizing behaviors. This opens up space for new approaches in mental health care.
Therefore, moderate anxiety, especially within the ERIS profile, can represent an important evolutionary advantage. Instead of being detrimental, it can help protect the body and encourage healthier choices throughout life.
Do you feel that your anxiety harms you, or have you noticed that it can help you make better decisions?
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