The Role of Thought Control Strategies on Perceived Stress in Hypertension Patients Referred to Health Centers in Qaenat

One of the most severe physiological, psychological disorders and the most critical risk factors for cardiovascular disease is hypertension. High blood pressure is associated with several factors, such as thought control strategies and perceived stress. This study aimed to investigate the role of thought control strategies on perceived stress in hypertensive patients. The research method was a descriptive correlational. To select the research sample, 180 patients with hypertension who referred to the health centers of Qaenat (200 persons in total) were selected in 2018. Participants then responded to Wells and Davis (1994), Perceived Stress Questionnaire Cohen (1983). Data were analyzed by SPSS software version 22. The results showed that there is a significant relationship between the components of mind control, the component of distraction, reassessment, fear and punishment with perceived stress (p <0.05). So that the component of distraction and reassessment of negative relationship and the components of worry and punishment are a positive relationship with perceived stress (p <0.05). Thought control strategies play a role in the perceived stress of hypertensive patients. Stress causes many disorders and mental illness, including hypertension. However, if a person is mentally sound and healthy, he will not be stressed and will be safe from blood pressure.