The effects of stress on the brain

Unlike what most people believe, stress is an integral part of life. It triggers the proper bodily reaction in preparation for danger or emergency cases. However, Dr. Curtis Cripe warns against chronic stress, as it can take a toll on the body. Additionally, being constantly stressed out can significantly impact the brain.

A well-known effect of chronic stress, according to researchers, is memory impairment. People tend to forget and fail to recall specific and sometimes vital information when stressed out.

There was even a study on older rats that noted increased levels of the stress hormone cortisol caused a decline in short-term memory. As one psychiatrist explains it, stress results in the brain shunting its resources because it has been put into survival mode and not memory mode.

Chronic stress can also change the brain’s structure, says Dr. Curtis Cripe. The brain is made of gray matter and white matter. On the one hand, gray matter is responsible for decision-making, problem-solving, and other higher-order thinking skills. On the other hand, white matter consists of all the axons connecting the different brain regions and parts to communicate information.

When a person is continually stressed, an imbalance in gray matter and white matter may occur. This could lead to permanent changes in the brain structure and functions. On top of that, the imbalance makes the affected individual more susceptible to mental illnesses.

Because the brain is the hub of memory, intelligence, and creativity, it is essential to enhance and optimize brain performance, explains Dr. Curtis Cripe. The brain can also be trained to remain flexible and resilient through neuroengineering programs.

Dr. Curtis Cripe is the director of research and development at NTL Group, a company that specializes in neuroengineering technology that repairs brain dysfunction. It works with executives, students, and aging individuals to provide enhancements in all the cognitive domains. Visit its official website for additional information.