Stress under the microscope: This is how our psyche influences our health!

Stress under the microscope: This is how our psyche influences our health!

Research on the connection between the psyche and stress is taking concrete shape at the Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU). The MODSTR study, led by Dr. Johanna Janson-Schmitt and Prof. Nicolas Rohleder, examines how physical and emotional reactions affect repeated stress. With 22 test subjects so far divided into two groups, the study is to be expanded to 120 more people by 2027. The aim is to find out how our mental state influences the physical reactions to stress. The study conditions involve one group ruminating about stress while the other group is taught how to deal with stress mindfully FAU explained.

Every person experiences stress differently. Researchers emphasize that the body's adaptation mechanisms (habituation) should change in order to prevent chronic inflammatory processes and diseases such as arteriosclerosis, high blood pressure, Alzheimer's and cancer. Negative rumination about events can make it difficult to adapt to stress and is associated with depression.

Focus on breathing and relaxation techniques

Studies show that breathing and relaxation exercises can help you experience stress as less stressful. These techniques are effective stress management strategies. However, there is currently no scientific evidence of long-term positive effects on the habituation of biological reactions. Dr. Janson-Schmitt herself practices mindfulness to observe her thoughts and emotions, and acknowledges that other people also struggle with stress.

A central component of the stress response is the HPA axis (hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis). This controls how we deal with stress and influences health and well-being. When activated by stress, corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) is released, which stimulates the pituitary gland to produce ACTH. This leads to the release of cortisol from the adrenal glands, which mobilizes energy reserves and has an anti-inflammatory effect. Neowake highlights that chronic stress can overactivate this axis, leading to an increased risk of various diseases.

The role of the HPA axis

Scientists have found that the HPA axis is primarily activated by psychological stressors. It is crucial that the body has the ability to habituate. This is shown by a reduced reaction to repeated stressors. However, it is important to note that individual differences as well as the context of stressors can influence HPA habituation. These complex interactions are the focus of current studies.

Symptoms of stress include sleep disorders, persistent tension, memory problems, and physical complaints such as headaches and muscle tension. Effective measures to manage stress include relaxation techniques, a healthy diet, regular physical activity and adequate sleep. Social support from friends and family also plays an essential role in stress management, such as pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov explained.