STRESS (- 2 years)

Did you know that you could lose a year of your life for every major stressful event that you experience (losing your job, personal injury/illness, death of a family member or spouse, divorce)?

Negative stress-management techniques such as overeating, denial, binge drinking, taking drugs and smoking are only short-term solutions that should be avoided. Focus on positive ways to cope with stress such as relaxation, exercise, massage, artistic expression or talking with family, friends, or a therapist.

LACK OF SLEEP (- 5 years)

Good-quality sleep is positively linked to successful aging and longer survival. On the flip side, fragmented sleep patterns tend to be a sign of faster aging and disease.

Sleep studies indicate that disrupted sleep can lead to irritability, memory and concentration levels and ability to handle stress.

The American Cancer Society performed a large study in 1950 and found that people who slept for just four or fewer hours a night had the highest death rates – while those who sleep excessively nine to ten hours a night had higher death rates. More recent research suggests that people sleeping six to seven hours a night live the longest.