“Changing how you respond to stress and how you think about stressful
situations is as important as maintaining a healthy diet and exercise
routine."

The results were based on data from 711 men and women between 25 and 74 who
had participated in the Midlife Development in the United States project and
the National Study of Daily Experiences.

According to Prof Charles and her colleagues, the findings show that mental
health outcomes are not affected by just major life events; they also bear
the impact of seemingly minor emotional experiences. The study suggests that
the chronic nature of negative emotions in response to daily stressors can
take a toll on long-term psychological well-being.

"It's important not to let everyday problems ruin your moments,"
Prof Charles said. "After all, moments add up to days, and days add up
to years. Unfortunately, people don't see mental health problems as such
until they become so severe that they require professional attention."