Stress 101
This hormone, released by the adrenal glands, plays a major role in the stress response.
What is cortisol?
This common physical symptom of stress involves tightness or aching in the head and neck.
What is a tension headache?
These hormones increase with exercise and help reduce stress. (Name two)
What is serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine?
This type of stress is short-term and can sometimes enhance performance.
What is acute stress?
This physical activity has been shown to reduce stress hormones, boost mood and is recommended for 150 minutes per week.
This part of the brain activates the stress response by signaling the hypothalamus.
What is the amygdala?
Ongoing stress can lead to this condition characterized by emotional exhaustion and low motivation.
What is burnout?
Aerobic exercise increases production of this protein, often described as “Miracle-Gro for the brain,” supports the growth of new neurons, helping the brain adapt to stress.
This form of stress persists over time and is associated with long-term health risks, and brain structure changes.
What is chronic stress?
This mind-body practice combines movement, stretching, breathing, and meditation, and has been shown to reduce stress by lowering cortisol and calming the nervous system.
What is yoga?
Severe stress activates this emergency phase, which increases breathing and heart rate.
What is the fight or flight response?
Long-term exposure to stress may increase the risk of this disease involving blocked arteries.
What is cardiovascular disease?
Regular exercise increases the size of this brain region involved in emotional regulation.
What is the hippocampus?
This kind of stress is triggered by interactions with others and can result from conflict, isolation, or pressure to conform.
What is social stress?
This technique, often used in therapy, involves breathing from the diaphragm to calm the nervous system.
What is deep breathing?
This hormone is released during stress and increases heart rate, blood pressure and dilates the bronchial tubes of the lungs.
What is epinephrine?
This term describes difficulty concentrating or making decisions due to stress.
What is cognitive impairment?
Exercise stimulates the release of these natural chemicals, known for reducing pain and promoting feelings of well-being.
What are endorphins?
This type of stress occurs when people constantly worry about events that haven’t happened yet.
What is anticipatory stress?
This practice involves focusing on the present moment to reduce stress.
What is mindfulness?
Chronic stress can reduce levels of this neurotransmitter, which helps regulate mood and emotions.
What is serotonin?
Some individuals under chronic stress develop this stress-related hair loss condition, where hair falls out in patches.
What is alopecia areata?
Exercise triggers the release of this inhibitory neurotransmitter.
What is gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA)?
This disorder develops after experiencing a traumatic event and is characterized by flashbacks, nightmares, and anxiety.
What is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)?
This relaxation method involves tensing and releasing muscle groups to reduce stress.
What is progressive muscle relaxation?