Optimism moderates psychophysiological responses to stress in older people with Type 2 diabetes

Abstract

Optimism is thought to be beneficial for health, and these effects may be mediated through modifications in psychophysiological stress reactivity. Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is associated with reduced cardiovascular responses to stress and heightened cortisol over the day. This study assessed the relationships between optimism, stress responsivity, and daily cortisol output in people with T2D. A total of 140 participants with T2D were exposed to laboratory stress. Heart rate (HR), systolic (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and cortisol were measured throughout the session. Cortisol output over the day was also assessed. Optimism and self‐reported health were measured using the revised Life Orientation Test and the Short Form Health Survey. Optimism was associated with heightened SBP and DBP stress reactivity (ps < .047) and lower daily cortisol output (p = .04). Optimism was not related to HR, cortisol stress responses, or the cortisol awakening response (ps > .180). Low optimism was related to poorer self‐reported physical and mental health (ps < .01). Optimism could have a protective role in modulating stress‐related autonomic and neuroendocrine dysregulation in people with T2D.

Association between poor psychosocial conditions and diabetic nephropathy in Japanese type 2 diabetes patients: A cross‐sectional study

“…These six indicators were also used in the 100-thousand-scale cohort studies in Japan, such as the Japan Public Health center-based prospective study and the Japan Gerontological Evaluation study 24,25 . LOT-R, laughter, ESSI and SNI were also shown to be applicable to diabetes patients [25][26][27][28] .…”

Factors associated with subsequent diabetes‐related self‐care activities: The role of social support and optimism

“…In addition, a high level of optimism could help avoid exaggerated stress reactions and modulate “stress‐related autonomic and neuroendocrine dysregulation” (Puig‐Perez et al, , P536), which could buffer the influence of stress on health behaviour. The finding suggests that improving patients’ optimism self‐management programme (e.g.…”

“…Optimism is an important inner strength which plays a protective role to avoid exacerbation of illness (Nabi et al, ). It is suggested that having an optimistic state of mind can improve confidence and motivation and modulate stress‐related neuroendocrine dysregulation, promoting the achievement of goals (Puig‐Perez, Hackett, Salvador, & Steptoe, ).…”

The mediating role of optimism and resilience on emotional distress in infertility: an integrative literature review

“…First, a highly estrogenic environment like that of IVF may cause HPA activation and premature release of luteinizing hormone (LH) [64] . Second, release of corticotrophin-releasing hormone would increase cortisol and inhibit estradiol production [65][66][67] . A longitudinal study [9] on emotional adjustment vis-à-vis fertility treatment cycles had women and their spouses complete pre-, post-, and delayed post-questionnaires to assess state anxiety, depression, neuroticism, optimism, infertility-related cognitions of helplessness and acceptance, coping, and self-evaluated social support.…”