Brain stress is an inescapable part of daily life and is brought on when the brain reacts to any situation that it interprets as urgent or threatening. When the brain senses a threat, it signals the adrenal glands to release adrenaline. This increases blood sugar levels and drives up heart rate and blood pressure. In this process another hormone called “cortisol” is released – which maintains heart beat rate and blood pressure and gives us time to “escape” from danger. Evidence of brain stress ordinarily include a feeling of a heavy heart beat.
Life may cause high levels of stress over a short period of time as well as long lasting times of stress. Physical fatigue, heavy work loads, emotionally unstable relationships, psychological shock, unbalanced diets, sleep disorders and unhealthy lifestyle all add to long-term brain stress.
Continuing stress over extended amounts of time not only impacts brain health but can also seriously affect physical health. As the body doesn’t distinguish between physical and psychological stress, ongoing (chronic) brain stress can affect all systems in the body. High blood pressure, weakened immune response, higher risk of coronary problems, sterility, and faster ageing are heavy implications of brain stress.
Other issues associated with psychological stress are physical pain, upset stomach, unsettled sleep, nervousness, weight issues depression, hyper-tension, short temper, autoimmune diseases, and weakness and fatigue. Any of these problems can negatively affect everyday life and cause negative “attitudes”.
Those suffering from brain stress are likely to adopt unhealthy life-styles and undesirable behaviors including: Smoking Alcohol use/abuse Abusing prescription and over the counter drugs
Taking illegal drugs
Oversleeping
Procrastinating
Violent or aggressive behavior
Deserting family and friends
There are a number of ways to help cope with brain stress and reduce damage from the effects of stress: Supportive social network: Connecting with positive people keeps you away from the negative effects of stress. Healthy Diet: Good nourishment gives you energy to fight back and deal with unwished-for circumstances. Do something that you enjoy: Whether it’s listening music or playing games, take some time to do activities that bring you joy. Exercise regularly: Be active, go for a stroll, or a fast 30 minutes at the fitness club is a great way to enhance not only physical health but also brain health. Get enough sleep: Most people in western cultures are always short of sleep. A good night’s sleeps helps rejuvinate the brain and body.
William Jones has had a life long interest in brain health and the many roles it plays in shaping our lives. As a researcher and author he is particularly fascinated with brain training and nutrition.
