HarnessingStressMakingStressWorkForYou.docVIP

“Effective Stress Management” May 6, 2008 How Stress Affects The Body In the short term, stress is vital, but over time it turns destructive. New research shows how chronic stress breaks down the body and makes way for disease. Immediate Effects In response to a perceived threat, the body channels resources for strength and speed. Brain – stress protectively dulls the body’s sense of pain; thinking and memory improve. Eyes – the pupils dilate for better vision. Lungs – lungs take in more oxygen. Liver – sugar stored as glycogen is converted to glucose. Heart – the bloodstream brings extra oxygen and glucose (fuel) for power; heart rate and blood pressure rise. Adrenal glands – the medulla secretes fight-or-flight hormone epinephrine (adrenaline) Spleen – extra red blood cells flow out, allowing the blood to carry more oxygen to muscles Intestines – digestion halts, allowing the body to dedicate energy to the muscles Hair – body hairs become erect (puffed-up hair makes animals look bigger, dangerous). Delayed Effects A few minutes after the fight-or-flight response, the body makes other changes to replenish itself. Brain – the hippocampus, a center of memory and learning, gets activated to process the stress Immune System – infection-fighting is diminished, perhaps increasing available energy Liver – fat (stored energy) is converted into usable fuel. Adrenal glands – the cortex secretes cortisol, which regulates metabolism and immunity; over time, though, it can be toxic. Chronic Effects If activated too often, the stress response may harm the immune system, brain and heart. Brain – cortisol becomes toxic to brain cells, potentially damaging cognitive ability; fatigue, anger, and depression increase. Immune System – repeated suppression of disease-fighting cells ultimately weakens resistance to infection. Intestines – decreases in blood flow leaves mucous lining vulnerable to ulcers Circulatory System – elevated blood pressure and heart rate damage elasticity of blo