Stress – mind & body links!

We have known for some time the affects that emotional stress has on the body. Particularly the increased risk of cardio vascular disease, this includes high blood pressure, and the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

Some of this can be due to negative coping mechanisms – such as smoking tobacco and drinking alcohol…

but more recently a direct link between the psychological processes and how this impacts our health has been identified.

Research has found a link between our emotions and heightened activity in the amygdala. The amygdala is the part of the brain which processes emotions such as fear and anger.

By measuring activity in this part of the brain, using CT scans, and measuring the levels of inflammation in the arteries, heightened activity was identified. By following up participants over several years, following a period of perceived stress, the researchers were able to show an association between the likelihood of a cardiac event and increased stress.

They also showed that higher levels of activity in the amygdala were associated with the occurrence of cardiac events sooner.

Further studies have added weight to these findings. Participants stress levels were significantly associated with activity in the amygdala and arterial inflammation.

Keeping your stress levels in perspective are more important than ever.

Look after yourself by:-

1. Recognising stress within yourself

2. Journal your thoughts and feelings – reducing mental stresses and observe your growth

3. Practice meditation, mindfulness or self hypnosis

4. Increase physical activity levels to maintain body wellbeing

5. Eat as healthily as you can

6. Nuture sleep

7. Connect with others and communicate your challenges                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                

At times this may be challenging and we may reach for the very things which worsen our health!?

In which case seek support.                                                                                                                                                       

Jo Copland-Dando is an Integrated Hypnotherapist with a background in Health. She currently works for CAMHS as a CBT Supervisor/Senior Mental Health Practitioner within a Mental Health in Schools Team, from a purpose built, safe and confidential space.