managing distress
learning to cope with negative or difficult emotional states
- form of self-regulation
“tipping point”
point when stress becomes too much (stress=harmful)
- begin showing S&S of strain/burden of perceived stress
- different for everyone
2 components of the stress diathesis model
stress
triggers several interconnected biological systems
allostasis
process by which the body adapts to changes in the body (such as stress)
- essential to maintain balance during challenges
diathesis
vulnerability or predisposition to a medical condition
caused by…
- biological (genetic inheritance)
- psychological (exposure to stressor)
- interaction between genetic and environmental
brain plasticity
ability of nervous system to change its activity in response to intrinsic or extrinsic stimuli by recognizing its structure, functions or connections
(Stressful experiences can affect brain structure and function)
the brain and regulation
brain determines what are threatening and what are positive experiences
- brain is responsible for regulating physical, emotional, behavioural and cognitive response to stressors, events and experiences
what happens if stress is manageable?
can lead to positive growth and adaptation (steeling effect)
steeling effect
more resistance to later stress having successfully coped with a stress or challenge
brain structure and stress
when stressed, brain changes structure in an adaptive or maladaptive way
how does the brain process information?
perceived stress
based on the way your brain processes information from your environment as well as genetics and life experiences
- everyone reacts differently to the same stress
the brain and physiologic responses
the brain controls and coordinates the physiological, psychological and behavioural response to perceived stress
- metabolism, HR, anxiety levels, what you tell yourself and how you behave
what do physiologic responses result through?
signalling of systems such as HPA axis, ANS, metabolic system, the gut, and immune system
what interventions alleviate allostatic load?
how do genotype x environment (GxE) influence susceptibility to all experiences?
What are the two most common mental health disorders in Canada?
anxiety disorders and depressive disorders
prevalence of anxiety disorder and/or mood disorder in Canada
3 million
- 1/4 have not sought treatment
emotional signs and symptoms associated with anxiety
physical signs and symptoms associated with anxiety
behavioural signs and symptoms associated with anxiety
cognitive signs and symptoms associated with anxiety
emotional signs and symptoms associated with depression