Neuroticism may actually have health benefits, a new study has found.
Contrary to researchers’ hypothesis, neurotic behavior, when paired with conscientiousness, was actually associated with lower levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), a biomarker for inflammation. Over the course of five years, participants with high neuroticism also had lower BMIs and fewer chronic health problems.
The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Rochester, was recently published in an article published in the journal Brain, Behavior and Immunity.
The findings fly in the face of assumptions that many people have: that worriers suffer poor health as a result of their anxiety.
How has anxiety affected you, your family or the Jewish people in general? As part of Moment’s annual Elephant in the Room contest, we’d love to hear your thoughts on these questions, so please share your experience with us. Feel free to discuss anxiety from a personal, religious, psychological or historical perspective.
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