In this study, having had a stressful major life event in the past year quadrupled the risk of stroke, while having a type "A" personality doubled the chances.
Smoking or having smoked in the past also doubled the chances.
Experts agree the findings could help doctors better understand the effects of stroke risk. They add, stress can elevate blood pressure, and high blood pressure is a major risk factor for stroke.
The study appears in the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery and Psychiatry.