Research
Adherence
Higher levels of neuroticism are generally associated with increased mortality risk, although some components (healthy neuroticism) may be protective.
While high neuroticism is often linked to shorter lifespan, some aspects like worry can motivate preventive health behaviors. Managing anxiety constructively, rather than suppressing it, may be beneficial for health.
ModerateQualifiesMEDIUM confidence
Findings regarding neuroticism are mixed, supporting the notion that many component(s) of neuroticism detract from life expectancy, but some components at some levels may be healthy or protective.
Why this rating
The paper describes findings as 'mixed' and notes null findings in several studies.
Source
Personality and Longevity: Knowns, Unknowns, and Implications for Public Health and Personalized Medicine
Benjamin P. Chapman et al. · Journal of Aging Research · 2011
DOI 10.4061/2011/759170
narrative_reviewCited 259×
Read the paper DOI resolved against Crossref · corpus check 2026-06-10
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- Higher levels of conscientiousness are associated with greater longevity and lower all-cause mortality risk.Good
- Type D personality (distressed personality, characterized by high negative affect and social inhibition) is associated with increased mortality risk, particularly in patients with cardiovascular disease.Good
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