Brain Parts & Stress
What part of the brain is responsible for detecting threats?
Lizard brain (Amygdala)
What does "fight" mean in the stress response system?
Getting ready to confront danger
What is the main stress hormone that is released by the stress response system (adrenal glands)?
Cortisol
What happens to your heart rate when you are stressed?
It increases
What is one way to relax when you feel stressed?
Deep breathing, going on a walk, talking with a trusted friend or adult, exercising, listening to music
What brain area controls decision-making and can "shut down" under stress?
Wizard brain, upstairs brain, front part of the brain (Pre-Frontal Cortex)
What does "flight" mean in the stress response system?
Running away from the danger
What hormone gives you an energy boost in a stressful situation?
Adrenaline
How might your muscles feel when you're stressed?
Tense or tight
How can exercise help manage stress?
It releases endorphins that make you feel better.
DAILY DOUBLE - What is the three step process in the stress response system?
1.) Brain takes in information from the environment through our senses
2.) Stress response system activated and cortisol released
3.) Body responds (fight, flight, freeze)
What does freeze mean in the stress response system
Becoming still or unable to act
Why do your heart and breathing speed up when you are stressed?
To get more oxygen to your muscles
What emotions do people often feel when they are stressed?
Anxiety, fear, or anger
Why does talking to someone help when you are stressed?
To help process emotions and feel supported
What happens to the brain's ability to focus and make decisions when stress is to high?
The pre-frontal cortex (wizard brain, upstairs brain) becomes less active, making it harder to focus, solve problems, and make decisions.
What is an example of a time you might freeze during school?
Feeling overwhelmed during a test
What happens to your digestive system when you're stressed?
It slows down
How can stress affect sleep?
It makes it harder to fall asleep or stay asleep
How does mindfulness help with stress?
It helps you to focus on the present and calm the brain
How does chronic stress affect the brain over time?
It weakens memory and focus
Why is the stress response system helpful sometimes?
Protects us from danger
How can deep breathing help manage stress?
It lowers cortisol levels
What is one way stress affects learning?
It makes it more difficult to focus and remember things
What is one long-term strategy for reducing stress
Getting enough sleep, eating healthy, staying active, finding trusted adults to talk to