Stress has a big effect on how our brains work and change.
When we’re stressed for a long time, it raises our cortisol levels. Cortisol is a hormone that can hurt a special part of our brain called the hippocampus. This area helps with memory and learning.
Studies show that long-lasting stress can shrink the hippocampus. In adults, it can get smaller by about 12%, and in teenagers, it can shrink by around 20%.
But not all stress is bad. Short bursts of stress can actually help our brains work better for a little while. This is called increased synaptic efficacy, which means our brain connections can be stronger, at least in the short term.
It’s really important to find a balance. Too much stress without breaks can lead to losing some of those brain connections. This can make it harder to remember things and learn new stuff.
Researchers have found that being in supportive and happy environments can lessen the negative effects of stress. These positive experiences can even help bring back some of that lost brain flexibility.
This shows us that stress can have both good and bad effects. It also reminds us how important our surroundings are in helping our brains adapt and grow, no matter what challenges we face.
Stress has a big effect on how our brains work and change.
When we’re stressed for a long time, it raises our cortisol levels. Cortisol is a hormone that can hurt a special part of our brain called the hippocampus. This area helps with memory and learning.
Studies show that long-lasting stress can shrink the hippocampus. In adults, it can get smaller by about 12%, and in teenagers, it can shrink by around 20%.
But not all stress is bad. Short bursts of stress can actually help our brains work better for a little while. This is called increased synaptic efficacy, which means our brain connections can be stronger, at least in the short term.
It’s really important to find a balance. Too much stress without breaks can lead to losing some of those brain connections. This can make it harder to remember things and learn new stuff.
Researchers have found that being in supportive and happy environments can lessen the negative effects of stress. These positive experiences can even help bring back some of that lost brain flexibility.
This shows us that stress can have both good and bad effects. It also reminds us how important our surroundings are in helping our brains adapt and grow, no matter what challenges we face.