Experiencing stress and anxiety makes people prone to developing Alzheimers's Disease according a study in mice conducted by David Holtzman at Washington University in St Louis, Missouri. Holtzman states that stress may cause a sharp increase in brain proteins called amyloid associated with the illness. Other studies have shown correlation between increased levels of amyloid beta peptide and risk of dementia in people. Stress is the underlying cause of many illnesses. It's crucial to find ways to manage stress and learn to stay relaxed.