A recent study conducted by Oregon State University revealed that when a person feels they have resolved a conflict, their emotional response related to that conflict significantly decreases, and in some cases, nearly disappears. Researchers stated that this reduction in stress response could have a significant impact on overall health, according to "Science Daily."
Robert Stawski, the study supervisor and an assistant professor at the College of Public Health and Human Sciences, said, "Everyone experiences stress in their daily lives. One cannot stop stressful things from happening. However, the extent to which one can manage these matters, resolve them, and work through them will certainly be beneficial for mental health."
He added, "Certainly, resolving conflicts is important for maintaining well-being in daily life."
Researchers have long been aware of how chronic stress can impact health, from mental health issues like depression and anxiety to physical problems such as heart diseases, weakened immune systems, reproductive issues, and gastrointestinal problems.
However, it's not just about chronic stressors, such as poverty or violence, that can cause harm. Dakota Witzel, a co-researcher in the study and a doctoral student in Human Development and Family Studies at Oregon State University, stated, "Daily stressors, especially the minor and secondary troubles we experience throughout the day, have lasting effects on mortality rates, as well as on issues like inflammation and cognitive function."
Stawski noted that while one cannot always control the stressors in their life - and the lack of control can itself be a stressor in many cases - it is possible to work on one's emotional responses to those stressors.
He explained, "The extent to which one can manage stress so that it does not have a disruptive impact on you throughout the day or for a few days could potentially reduce long-term effects."
