You may be 40 years old, but could your brain already be showing signs of accelerated aging? New research involving more than 18,000 people suggests that the answer may depend on much more than genetics or your date of birth.

necessarily harmful.

However, persistent or severe stress can interfere with sleep, concentration, mood, and memory.

Researchers are particularly interested in how stress-related processes affect the hippocampus, a brain region essential for learning and memory.

Chronic stress has been associated with changes in neural signaling and cognitive performance.

Nevertheless, the relationship is complex.

Experiencing anxiety or stress does not automatically mean a person’s brain is aging prematurely or sustaining permanent damage.

The duration, severity, and surrounding biological and social circumstances matter.

What may help: Regular exercise, adequate sleep, psychological support, relaxation techniques, and addressing persistent sources of stress can all contribute