Partner’s positive mood linked to reduced cortisol levels in older couples

A new study published in the journal Psychoneuroendocrinology highlights the profound impact a partner’s positive emotions can have on stress management, particularly in older couples. The findings suggest that when a relationship partner experiences more positive emotions, their partner tends to have lower cortisol levels—a key stress hormone—both moment-to-moment and throughout the day. The connection between a partner’s positivity and cortisol was especially strong in couples with higher relationship satisfaction and among older participants.

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