Sober Synthesis

What Is Stress?

Stress is a physical expression of our “Fight or Flight” survival mechanism.
A threat will trigger stress response,
– prepares us to confront or flee a possible danger.
Helpful for immediate danger!
However, stress response is also triggered by situations where physical action is not an option, such as interpersonal conflict, traffic, or financial problems.

Two Types of Stress
Acute – Acute stress prepares us for fight or flight and is short-term.
Chronic – Chronic stress is long term
Main cause of stress-related chronic health problems.
Also: fight-flight-freeze & fawn

Stress causes chemical changes in the body that can have negative effects on both mental and physical health.
High levels of stress contribute to health issues:
– e.g. depression,insomnia, heart disease, skin disorders and headaches.
– inflammation

Acute Stress 

Short-term response by the body’s sympathetic nervous system. 

Response can last a few minutes or a few weeks. 

Adrenal medulla (part of the adrenal glands, on top of kidneys) begins to release  catecholamine hormones (adrenaline and noradrenaline). More than seventeen different hormones released during acute stress response.

Physical responses

-blood sugar levels rise

• additional red blood cells are released (to carry extra oxygen)

• peripheral blood vessels constrict

• pulse quickens

• blood pressure rises

• digestion stops

Chronic Stress

Continuous acute stress response keeps the body on alert continuously.    

Negatively affects health. 

Ongoing stress response causes the hypothalamus and pituitary gland to release ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone); known as the “stress hormone” and stimulates production and release of cortisol.

Cortisol is associated with waking and sleeping and fluctuate during the day. 

When chronic stress stimulates cortisol production, the daily cycle of cortisol levels is disrupted. 

High levels of cortisol may occur at night = insomnia.

Stress and Health

Imbalances of cortisol and other stress-related hormones weaken health over time. Effects not immediately seen. 

High Levels of Stress (Cortisol) Contributes to Weight Gain

Cortisol promotes the synthesis of glucose from proteins to make more glucose available as fuel 

Reduces lean muscle mass and increases blood sugar levels. 

Research: shows cortisol increases the depostion of abdominal fat and increases cravings for food, especially carbohydrates (sugars). 

Helps to set up the vicious cycle of stress and overeating which creates more stress and more overeating, etc.