I've been mostly on BP meds for the past 3 or 4 years, including Atenol. Right now I'm on Lisinopril, but not because of any issues with Atenol. I take 10 mg a day and at one point 5 mg daily. Basic reason for me is being overweight. if I take off another 15 lbs, I may no longer need BP medicine. The stress of what's been happening in your life is probably the main cause with a little help from the change to a sedentary life style.