Long-term-stress is not good for human health. But currently it is not sufficiently understood why stress has such strong effects on certain groups of people. Now a German research team has found out that acute stress causes dynamic changes in the brain structures. The researchers are working for the Max Planck Institute for Psychiatry (MPI). They observed that diverse networks in the brain react in different ways to acute stress loads. The results of their study were published in the scientific magazine “Biological Psychiatry”.
The reactions of the probands under stress varied
The researchers teamed up with the Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy at the University Hospital in Tübingen. Together they investigated which brain areas become active under stress in their probands. The participants had to complete tricky tasks under time pressure, including difficult maths exercises. Their observers used magnetic resonance imaging to see what’s happening in their heads. In addition to the MRI images, the team measured the heart rate of the test persons and the level of the stress hormone cortisol. First author Anne Kühnel explains: “Our study shows not only where changes occur, but also how different brain regions interact and how their communication changes over the course of the situation.”
The reactions of the probands varied, the researchers could link them to certain moods e.g. frustration or fear. The more anxious, depressed or reserved the person was, the higher seemed the risk of mental illness and the matching brain changes according to the scientists. “The altered communication between brain areas supports the thesis that mental disorders are network diseases in which the interaction of neuronal units is disturbed,” states Elisabeth Binder, director of the MPI.
How to prevent negative stress reactions
Stress is harmful, the overall finding is not new. That’s why it’s a good idea to prevent overloading – for a healthy brain and a resilient psyche. But in daily life it is not easy to avoid stressful situations. That’s why you should take every opportunity to have a break, no matter how short. Do some mediation, breathing exercises or take a small walk outside. For many people it is helpful to play a game to distract themselves. Digital games like Candy Crush and real money video slots are quickly available and provide lots of fun. Excitement is also involved, but that’s no failure, because this time it concerns positive stress. Visit the comparison portal vegasslotssonline.com to chose your favorite slot and begin to play a few seconds later. The free-to-play-slots are listed in a clear table with an expressive picture and the respective topic.
Building an anti-stress wall around the sensitive soul
Not everyone likes to play virtual games, so there have to be other means to get rid of your daily stress. One of them is the positive self-communication. Your inner attitude is strongly involved in your stress reaction, because the way we think influences how we feel. So, try to be really patient and gracious with yourself, don’t count your mistakes – count your victories instead. It is helpful to sometimes tell yourself things like: “I can do it” or “I am good the way I am”. In the long run, the positive self-communication will make you feel much better, it builds an anti-stress wall around the human soul.
Another way to reduce stress is to talk to others frequently. Look for people you trust and leave your mental carousel by telling them about your inner feelings. It is also a good idea to ask for advice in a complex and stressful situation. If you find that you are already too caught up in your negative thoughts, it may also make sense to seek professional help. This is no sign of weakness, but of reason.
More tips to live a relaxed life
There are also many other widely used measures against stress like listening to music, exercising, healthy food and enough sleep for an efficient recovery. It Is helpful to know your priorities, set reasonable goals and avoid multitasking whenever possible. It’s much better to change your life before severe stress symptoms occur, but if they are already there, it is not too late. The human brain is adaptable, positive influences can cancel out negative ones.
