Where Georgia stands: These are the healthiest and unhealthiest states in the U.S.

Study suggests mental stress , may pose an increased risk , to cardiovascular health .The New York Times reports that chronic psychological stress may play a larger role in heart health than traditional cardiac risk factors. .The New York Times reports that chronic psychological stress may play a larger role in heart health than traditional cardiac risk factors. .According to a study published in November in JAMA, mental stress took a significantly greater toll on the heart than physical stress. .Those who experienced greater mental stress were more likely to suffer a nonfatal heart attack or die of cardiovascular disease in the years following the test. .Those who experienced greater mental stress were more likely to suffer a nonfatal heart attack or die of cardiovascular disease in the years following the test. .Dr. Michael T. Osborne, a cardiologist at Massachusetts General Hospital, , explained that the Interheart study showed that mental stress is an independent risk factor for heart attacks, causing damages similar to more commonly-measured risks. .Osborne said evidence suggests modern medicine has largely neglected a vitally important danger to heart health.He said regular physical exercise can help control stress and prevent the body-wide inflammation it can cause. .He said regular physical exercise can help control stress and prevent the body-wide inflammation it can cause. .Developing healthy sleep habits can also help reduce the risk of damage to your cardiovascular system. .The NYT pointed out that relaxation practices like mindfulness meditation, controlled breathing, yoga and tai chi can also help people cope with stress. .Additionally, Osborne said that several common medications can help. .Statins reduce cholesterol and counter arterial inflammation. .Antidepressants, like ketamine, can also help ease stress in people with depression