The neurobiology of stress
Did you know that stress is NOT just in the mind?
In fact, stress is anything which triggers a response from the SRS (Stress Response System), that means it may be:
- Psychological (i.e. divorce/work demands/loss of a loved one)
- Metabolic (i.e. inflammation/hormonal imbalances)
- Physiological (i.e. poor sleep/poor gut function/compromised immunity)
- Environmental (i.e. toxins/chemicals)
Acute versus Chronic Stress
Acute stress is actually highly beneficial for us, and thank god every cell is our body is hard-wired to deal effectively with acute stress! The various hormones and chemical messengers which mediate our acute stress response actually have protective and adaptive effects in the short run, but can accelerate pathophysiology and disease when they are over-produced or mismanaged. This is chronic stress, and it’s a whole other story! Take the immune system for example – acute stress enhances immune function whereas chronic stress suppresses it.Lately, I’ve been learning about the neurobiology of stress. I have always believed that our thoughts can effect our physical health, but as I learn more about the complexities of the human body, I’m leaning towards the notion that our physical health largely determines our mental well-being. In other words, maybe mental health disorders do not originate in the brain, but instead have their origin in physiological and biochemical disturbances (such as systemic inflammation, nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, high toxicity levels, poor gut function, or a compromised immune system)? The theory then would be that in order to effectively support mental and emotional health, it is fundamental to also support physiological health. I’ll be blogging more about this in the future as it’s quite a loaded topic… so stay tuned.
For now, here are some coping strategies for stress:
- Identify your stressor/s.
- Be positive – sometimes a crisis equals opportunity.
- Control your response – remember to breathe deeply and slowly, and communicate with others how you’re feeling. Develop self-discipline and control.
- Be objective – what is actually at risk?
- Accept that nothing is perfect, including us.
- Make connections with people – surround yourself with supportive and positive people. Have a network of people you can talk to, have fun with, and trust.
- Deal effectively with mistakes – learn from them.
- Acknowledge your triumphs – this one is very important!
- Take time out – unplug your computer, phone, Ipad and TV; and take some time out for yourself.
- Eat well and stay nourished – this will give your body resilience, vitality and balance.
- And as the picture below suggests – dance, walk, sleep, talk, smile and love!
With an upcoming wedding, a business to run, and post-graduate studies… it’s easy to let stress take the fun out of my day! However, as a Naturopath, I’m all too familiar with the interconnectedness of the mind and body, particularly in relation to the impact that stress has on our ability to heal, overcome illness, stay positive and remain focused. Whatever your situation, stress need not damage your health. If you adopt some stress management techniques, you can quickly be on the road to a healthier, happier life. Remember, time flies, and life is just too damn short not to be happy!References:Bracha HS, Garcia-Rill E, Mrak RE, Skinner R. 2005, ‘Post-mortem locus coeruleus neuron counting three American veterans with probable or possible war-related PTSD. J Neuropsych Clin Neurosi; 17: 503-509
