Stress

Stress Response

A physiological reaction that occurs when an individual perceives a threat, activating the body's defense mechanisms.

Purpose of the Stress Response

Prepares the body for potential danger, increases focus and alertness, and mobilizes energy resources.

Increased Heart Rate

Enhances blood flow to vital organs and muscles as a response to stress.

Hormonal Changes

Release of cortisol and adrenaline during stress, altering metabolism and energy levels.

Heightened Sensory Awareness

Improves perception of the environment to detect further threats during a stress response.

Lizard Brain

Refers to the amygdala, responsible for instinctual survival responses and emotional processing.

Human Brain

Refers to the prefrontal cortex, responsible for higher cognitive functions such as reasoning and decision-making.

Flipping Your Lid

A state where the prefrontal cortex is overwhelmed, leading to loss of rational thought and increased emotional reactivity.

Paper Tiger

A perceived threat that is not as dangerous as it seems, indicating exaggerated fear or anxiety.

Acute Stress

A short-term stress response to a specific event or situation, offering increased alertness and readiness.

Positive Coping Behaviors

Healthy strategies like exercise and meditation that enhance resilience and well-being.

Negative Coping Behaviors

Maladaptive strategies such as substance use or avoidance that can worsen stress levels.

Functions of the Prefrontal Cortex

Involved in planning, decision-making, and impulse control.

Functions of the Hippocampus

Crucial for memory formation and learning, particularly in contextualizing stress-related experiences.

Functions of the Amygdala

Processes emotions, particularly fear and anxiety, and triggers the stress response.

Detection by the Amygdala

Responsible for detecting fear and initiating the body's stress response.

Response Activation

The initiation of the stress response, resulting in hormone release.

Cognitive Overwhelm

When the prefrontal cortex struggles to maintain control due to the amygdala's influence.

Outcome of Stress Response

Heightened stress, anxiety, or panic even in situations where threats may not be real.