stress Archives - Clardoon Health

Posted on: June 10, 2024May 29, 2024

How Your Beliefs About Stress Shape Your Reality

“Whether you think you can or you think you can’t, you’re probably right.” This timeless quote, attributed to Henry Ford nearly a century ago, continues to hold profound wisdom. It speaks to the influence of our mindset on our experiences—a principle that extends to how we perceive and manage stress.

Stress: Friend or Foe?

Stress is a ubiquitous part of life, often portrayed as an adversary to be avoided at all costs. However, recent research suggests that our beliefs about stress play a significant role in determining its impact on us. In essence, our mindset towards stress—whether we view it as debilitating or enhancing—shapes our experience of it.

A recent study conducted by researchers from Staffordshire University explored how athletes’ perceptions of stress affected their performance. Focusing on footballers and swimmers in England, the study aimed to understand how mindset interventions could influence athletes’ stress experiences during the competitive season.

Understanding the Study

The researchers gathered 94 young athletes, split into two groups: a control group and an experimental group. While the control group received no specific intervention, the experimental group participated in a series of workshops aimed at shifting their mindset towards stress from “debilitating” to “enhancing.”

The intervention proved successful in altering the athletes’ perceptions of stress. By the study’s conclusion, participants in the experimental group were more likely to view stress as a positive force that could enhance their performance. Additionally, they reported experiencing fewer negative emotions associated with stress.

Here’s How You Can Navigate Stress Mindfully

Understanding Beliefs About Stress: Reflect on your beliefs about stress. Many individuals have been conditioned to see stress as inherently harmful. By recognising and challenging these beliefs, you can adopt a more empowering perspective that acknowledges stress as a potential catalyst for growth and development.
Noticing and Naming Stress: Develop awareness of your stress responses. Identify and label your feelings of stress and move away from avoidance towards proactive problem-solving. By confronting stressors directly and taking decisive action, you can mitigate the negative impact of stress on your well-being.

As this study demonstrates, our beliefs about stress profoundly influence our experience of it. By cultivating a mindset that views stress as a natural and even beneficial aspect of life, we can transform our relationship with stress. Rather than seeing it as a hindrance, we can harness its energy to fuel personal growth and resilience.

References:

Mansell P, Sparks K, Wright J, Roe L, Carrington S, Lock J, et al. ”Mindset: performing under pressure” – a multimodal cognitive-behavioural intervention to enhance the well-being and performance of young athletes. J Appl Sport Psychol. :1–20.

Posted on: January 1, 2024December 3, 2023

4 Key Steps to Transforming Stress Into A Superpower

As we embark on a new year, it’s natural to reflect on aspects of our lives that we’d like to improve. One common theme is the desire to manage stress more effectively. Ever wondered why some people seem to thrive under stress while others crumble? It turns out, it’s all about mindset. Your perception of stress can significantly impact how it affects your performance, health, and overall well-being. Stanford University researchers, led by Dr. Alia Crum, delved into the intriguing question of whether someone with a “stress is debilitating” mindset could transform into someone who sees stress as a positive force. The answer, as it turns out, lies in the power of metacognition—how we think about thinking.

Dr. Crum and her team conducted a series of experiments to explore the malleability of stress mindsets. They introduced participants to a metacognitive process designed to reframe their view of stress. The process involved four key steps.

1. Understanding Your Stress Mindset:

Let’s begin by exploring how your mindset about stress has shaped your experiences. Take a moment to reflect on occasions when stress has played a positive or negative role in your life. Have you ever embraced a challenging task, or perhaps avoided something important due to stress?

2. Noticing and Naming Your Stress:

Now, let’s identify a recurring stressor in your life. Focus on observation rather than immediate problem-solving. Describe the emotional, physical, and behavioural aspects of your stress response.

3. Welcoming Your Stress:

Recognise that stress often stems from a deep concern or investment in a particular aspect of your life. Identifying the source of stress allows you to reframe it as a sign of caring or importance. You can complete this sentence as an exercise: “I am stressed about this because I care about…”

You can also try “The Five Whys” which is a powerful tool for dissecting stressors. Start by asking “why” in response to your initial stressor and continue this process at least five times, each time probing deeper into the core issues. This method helps reveal the true origins of stress, enabling targeted and effective coping strategies.

4. Turning Your Stress into a Superpower:

The final step involves transforming stress into a source of growth. Explore how stress could benefit you in a given situation. What opportunities does it provide? What changes can you make to leverage stress for a more enriching experience? Remember, this is about empowering yourself to navigate stress and harness it for personal growth.

In essence, by embracing a metacognitive approach, you can shift your stress mindset from “debilitating” to “enhancing.” This shift not only leads to measurable improvements in physical health and interpersonal skills, as found in the Stanford University study but also empowers you to navigate stress as a catalyst for personal growth. As you guide yourself through this transformative process, remember: stress can be your superpower, propelling you towards a more resilient and fulfilling life. So, as we step into the new year, consider making this shift in mindset a cornerstone of your resolutions, unlocking the potential for a year marked by personal development and well-being.

References:

https://psycnet.apa.org/fulltext/2023-72899-001.html

Posted on: November 6, 2023November 8, 2023

Rejection Sensitivity: Does It Affect Our Relationship with Food?

The echoes of childhood experiences often reverberate throughout our lives, shaping our perceptions, behaviours, and even our relationship with food. Memories of being teased or rejected based on appearance can leave lasting imprints, influencing how we approach nutrition and health. This phenomenon is closely tied to rejection sensitivity, a personality trait that has significant implications for our eating habits and overall well-being. In this article, we delve into the intriguing connection between rejection sensitivity and disordered eating behaviours, as unveiled by a recent study conducted by researchers at McGill University.

The Study’s Exploration

The researchers at McGill University embarked on a quest to uncover the intricate relationship between rejection sensitivity and our attitudes towards food. Their hypothesis revolved around the idea that individuals who fear rejection may be more prone to experiencing interpersonal stress. This stress, arising from social conflicts, bullying, or ostracism, could trigger extreme responses concerning food, such as binge eating or strict dietary restrictions, as a way of coping.

To test their hypothesis, the scientists engaged two groups of females in a series of questionnaires. These surveys aimed to uncover:

Participants’ feelings about rejection
Their encounters with ostracism and bullying
Their perspectives on eating, body weight, and shape
Their height and weight measurements

The Study’s Revelations

The study’s findings unveiled compelling insights into the connection between rejection sensitivity and disordered eating. Surprisingly, it wasn’t interpersonal stress that acted as the primary link between rejection sensitivity and disordered eating. Instead, rejection sensitivity demonstrated a direct association with concerns about body weight and shape, as well as binge eating.

In essence, the fear of rejection or the perception of rejection, regardless of whether it’s rooted in reality, can significantly contribute to disordered eating patterns. Intriguingly, individuals with high rejection sensitivity might develop eating issues as a means of self-preservation, attempting to shield themselves from potential interpersonal issues rather than using these behaviours as a response to stress.

Key Takeaways for Your Journey

Food Issues Reach Beyond Nutrition: Your relationship with food isn’t solely about what’s on your plate. It’s a complex interplay of your life experiences, your unique personality, the people around you, and how you perceive yourself. These elements not only determine what and how much you eat but also shape your emotional connection with food.
Navigating Relationship Challenges: If you find yourself in the midst of relationship turmoil or battling feelings of isolation, it’s essential to be mindful of how this can impact your eating habits. Emotional struggles can lead to unhealthy relationships with food, so it’s crucial to stay vigilant and seek support if needed.
Empowering Your Journey: Boosting your self-esteem can be a powerful tool in overcoming rejection sensitivity and its effects on your eating behaviours. While therapists are experts in this area, you can kickstart this process by building self-awareness. Consider exploring techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy, art therapy, mindfulness, and meditation. These initial steps can pave the way for a healthier relationship with food and yourself.

In conclusion, the enlightening study from McGill University highlights the profound influence of rejection sensitivity on our eating behaviours. It serves as a reminder that our connection with food runs deep, intertwined with our past experiences and emotions. As you embark on your personal journey towards healthier eating habits, remember that it’s not just about what’s on your plate but also about nurturing a positive relationship with food and yourself.

References:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0195666323001216

Posted on: October 9, 2023October 9, 2023

How Does Stress Influence Obesity and Vice Versa?

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought into sharp focus what we already knew: stress is closely linked to weight gain. However, the question remains: why exactly is stress problematic in this context? Beyond the surface-level effects, what underlies this relationship? A review by UCLA researchers offers insights into why stress and obesity are intricately connected, revealing a more complex interplay than commonly acknowledged.

How Stress Contributes to Weight Gain

Stress has a profound impact on various systems involved in weight regulation, and these effects are interconnected. They form feedback loops that can influence one another. Let’s explore these systems:

Cognition

Stress can disrupt cognitive functions, including executive function and self-regulation, which encompass skills such as planning, organising, emotional management, concentration, and impulse control.

Behaviours

Stress influences eating habits, physical activity levels, and sleep patterns. Interestingly, within this system, each factor can also affect the others. For instance, inadequate sleep can hinder physical activity, and a lack of physical activity can disrupt sleep patterns.

Physiology

This area delves into the scientific aspect. Researchers outline three ways in which stress might affect individuals physiologically:

- Stress Hormones: Stress triggers the release of hormones that can lead to increased appetite and signal the body to store fat. Scientifically, this is referred to as “hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis activation.”
- Reward Seeking: Stress elevates the brain’s desire for feel-good chemicals, such as dopamine, motivating individuals to consume highly palatable foods rich in sugar and fat or to seek out substances like alcohol or drugs
- Microbiome Impact: While research on humans is limited, there is speculation that stress may negatively affect the gut microbiome, potentially increasing susceptibility to weight gain. Remarkably, the gut microbiome can also influence emotions and behaviours.

Biochemistry

Stress can impact blood chemicals associated with weight control:

- Leptin and Ghrelin: These hormones play a role in hunger and appetite. Leptin suppresses hunger, while ghrelin stimulates it, though the relationship is more intricate than this simplified explanation.
- Neuropeptide Y: This peptide may stimulate both appetite and fat storage.

These interconnected factors provide a comprehensive view of how stress can affect individuals’ weight. However, there is more to explore.

How Obesity Can Induce Stress

Certainly, it’s essential to delve into how obesity impacts stress. Obesity not only affects physical health but also introduces a psychological dimension. The societal stigma associated with obesity can be a potent stressor in itself. People living with obesity may encounter prejudice, bias, and discrimination, which, in turn, contribute to elevated stress levels. This weight stigma-induced stress forms a challenging feedback loop, where stress exacerbates obesity, and obesity intensifies stress. This cyclical relationship highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to health and well-being, one that not only addresses physical aspects but also emphasises the importance of mental and emotional resilience in the face of societal pressures and prejudices. It underscores the significance of empathy, understanding, and support in helping individuals navigate the complex interplay between obesity and stress.

What You Can Learn from This

Holistic Approach: As someone looking to improve their health, it’s crucial to recognize that nutrition advice is just one piece of the puzzle. While tracking macros like protein, carbs, and fat is important, it’s equally vital to understand that other factors, especially stress, can significantly impact your progress.
Identify Your Starting Point: If you’re facing challenges with weight management, it’s essential to determine the root cause. If stress plays a significant role in your life, simply focusing on changing your diet might not deliver the results you want. Consider prioritizing strategies to manage stress effectively, build resilience, and regulate your emotions. These skills can create a solid foundation for making lasting improvements in your eating habits and overall lifestyle.

References:

http://dx.doi.org/10.1146/annurev-psych-010418-102936

Posted on: September 11, 2023August 7, 2023

4 Things You Need to Know About Stress and Sleep

In the busy world we live in today, two well-known challenges often show up: stress and sleep problems. It’s no secret that both can take a toll on your overall well-being. They can weaken your immune system, wreak havoc on your metabolic and cardiovascular health, and even impact your cognitive function and emotional regulation. While it’s clear that stress and sleep are intertwined, understanding the intricate dance between them is more complex than meets the eye. Let’s delve into four key insights that shed light on the intriguing relationship between stress and sleep.

1. A Vicious Cycle: Stress and Sleep Deprivation

Picture this: stress and sleep problems are like old pals who always show up together. It’s a package deal that many of us are familiar with. Research has revealed that these two often go hand in hand. Where you find stress, sleep troubles often lurk nearby, and vice versa. But the age-old question remains: which one comes first? Is it the stress that keeps you tossing and turning at night, or is it the lack of sleep that magnifies your stressors?

Realistically, it’s not as simple as cause and effect. Stress and sleep problems can create a vicious cycle, each intensifying the other. Brazilian scientists embarked on a mission to unravel this puzzle by studying the experiences of 92 young adults. Their innovative approach aimed to tease out the culprit behind the cycle of stress and sleep disruption.

2. The Sleep-Stress Instigator

It turns out that poor sleep often takes the lead in the stress-sleep cycle. The study’s participants experienced increased perceived stress following nights of insufficient sleep. Interestingly, the data indicated that stress levels didn’t wield the same influence over subsequent sleep patterns. This surprising revelation suggests that sleep problems might be a driving force behind heightened stress levels.

3. Cause and Effect Unveiled

This study’s strength lies in its methodology. Unlike previous attempts, it employed a longitudinal approach to gather real-time data on participants’ sleep and stress patterns. The daily tracking of sleep hours and stress levels over the span of 4 to 11 weeks allowed researchers to uncover cause-and-effect relationships that had eluded them before.

However, it’s worth noting that this study’s findings are specific to young adults in Brazil. Cultural and demographic differences could influence how stress and sleep interact in other populations. While the study provides valuable insights, its applicability may vary among different groups.

4. A Path Towards Better Well-Being

Now that we’ve unveiled some of the mysteries surrounding stress and sleep, what can you do with this knowledge? The takeaways are twofold:

Firstly, prioritize sleep for better stress management. When stressors are beyond your control, improving your sleep quality can help mitigate their impact. This study suggests that enhancing your sleep might contribute to a more manageable perception of stress, even in the face of unchangeable circumstances.

Secondly, embrace the power of adequate sleep. Striving for 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep each night is a wise move. Inadequate sleep has been linked to a slew of health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. If you find yourself clocking fewer than 7 hours of slumber and battling daytime stress, addressing your sleep habits could be a pivotal step towards better well-being.

Keep in mind that while more sleep is generally beneficial, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Excessive, unrestful sleep might signal underlying health concerns, warranting a medical evaluation.

In the intricate dance between stress and sleep, understanding their interactions empowers you to make informed choices. By nurturing your sleep and managing stress to the best of your ability, you can find a harmonious balance that contributes to your overall health and happiness. Remember, it’s not just about the quantity of sleep, but the quality of life it can help you achieve.

References:

http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.sleh.2022.01.004

Posted on: August 21, 2023August 21, 2023

How Your Appetite Responds Under Stress

Stress is like an unwelcome guest that often overstays its welcome. Whether it’s work deadlines, family responsibilities, or unexpected challenges, stress can be hard to avoid. But have you ever wondered how stress might be influencing your eating habits? Recent research suggests that stress doesn’t just play with our emotions; it might also have a surprising impact on our appetite. In this article, we’ll delve into a fascinating study that unravels the intricate relationship between stress, body composition, and food preferences.

Imagine this: brain scans, freezing-cold water, and a menu filled with both food and office supplies. Sounds intriguing, right? Researchers at Johns Hopkins University designed a study to explore how stress affects the appetite of individuals with different body compositions. They recruited 29 participants—17 with obesity and 12 lean individuals, and subjected them to both physical and social stressors.

The participants underwent brain scans using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) while exposed to different stress levels. The catch? They were shown food cues alongside words like “rubber bands” and “staple remover.” This unique approach aimed to uncover how stress impacts desire and restraint, especially in the realm of eating.

Stress vs. Appetite: Lean vs. Obesity

As the saying goes, “lean and hungry,” and this study provides a real-life example. Lean participants displayed higher levels of wanting and hunger in response to the presented food cues. Interestingly, they craved everything, from energy-dense foods like pizza to low-calorie options like fruits and vegetables. Even non-food items like office supplies seemed appealing to them.

When finally given the chance to eat after a nine-and-a-half-hour fasting period, lean participants consumed around 1,000 calories. But here’s the twist: under higher-stress conditions, they actually consumed more fruits and vegetables compared to when they weren’t stressed.

Conversely, participants with obesity showed lower wanting scores and higher restraint scores. However, their eating behavior told a different story. When presented with an all-you-can-eat buffet, those with obesity consumed approximately 1,400 calories in the non-stress condition and nearly 1,600 calories under stress. Furthermore, they gravitated towards energy-dense foods like pizza during the high-stress phase of the study.

Digging deeper, the study also explored how participants’ brains reacted to food cues during fMRI scans. Notably, those with obesity exhibited lower activation in brain regions linked to self-control when contemplating higher-energy-density foods. However, they showed more activation in reward-seeking areas under high-stress conditions.

Key Takeaways

1. Genetics and Appetite:

This study underscores the influence of genetics on eating behaviors, particularly under stress. Brain activation patterns and eating responses suggest that individuals might be predisposed to consume more in high-stress situations. Lower impulse control has also been linked to a higher risk of obesity in other studies.

2. Stress Management for Weight Management

While there’s no magic solution for weight loss, managing stress could significantly impact its success. Stress and food often go hand in hand, but turning to food for comfort rarely solves the underlying issue. Doing the “pick a thing before the thing” practice, such as taking a short walk or sipping water before eating, can help create a mental buffer between stress and eating.

Stress and appetite have a complex relationship that can be influenced by body composition and genetics. While stress may push some to eat more, it could drive others to avoid certain foods. By understanding these dynamics, we can empower ourselves to make more mindful choices, even in high-stress situations. Remember, the goal isn’t to eliminate the connection between food and emotions but rather to create a healthy space between the two—a space where our well-being and nourishment can coexist harmoniously.

References:

http://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0271915

http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.neuroimage.2017.07.052

http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.neubiorev.2016.06.041

Posted on: July 24, 2023July 7, 2023

Can Emotional Regulation Combat Stress?

Feeling overwhelmed and stressed has become a common experience for many of us. It’s not uncommon to find ourselves in a constant state of anxiety, struggling to cope with the demands of everyday life. However, research suggests that prolonged periods of stress can have negative effects on our overall well-being. A recent study conducted by the University of Montreal aimed to investigate whether individuals who perceive themselves as “very stressed out” exhibit higher physiological biomarkers of stress compared to those who are more emotionally regulated. The findings shed light on the importance of emotional regulation in managing stress and improving overall mental health.

The Study

The researchers recruited 123 healthy volunteers who self-identified as either “zen” or “very stressed out.” The participants underwent various psychological and emotional assessments to determine if their perceived stress levels were reflected in their blood work. The assessments measured subjective ratings of stress, depressive symptoms, anxiety, emotional regulation, resilience, and mind-wandering. Additionally, the participants participated in the Trier Social Stress Test, which involved a speech and mental arithmetic task in front of judges.

The Results

Interestingly, the study revealed no significant differences in the biomarkers of stress between the two groups. Both groups experienced similar physiological responses to stress, regardless of their self-perceived stress levels. However, the “very stressed out” group exhibited higher levels of symptoms related to depression, anxiety, and poor emotional regulation. On the other hand, the “zen” group demonstrated higher levels of resilience, emotional stability, and positive mental health.

Implications

These findings suggest that individuals who perceive themselves as highly stressed may be experiencing psychological distress rather than a significant physiological stress response. This offers a glimmer of hope for those struggling with stress, as it indicates that there might not be an underlying physiological problem that needs to be addressed. Instead, the focus can be on improving emotional regulation skills to better manage daily stressors and move closer to a state of calmness and well-being.

Here are some practical steps for managing stress:

1. Stress Management

Stress management is crucial for maintaining overall well-being. Explore different techniques that help you regulate your emotions, such as deep breathing exercises, mindfulness practices, or engaging in activities you enjoy. Find what works best for you and incorporate it into your daily routine.

2. Don’t accept stress as a fact of life

Recognize that chronic stress can have long-term consequences on your mental health. Take proactive steps to address your emotional well-being and seek support from professionals if needed. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help when stress feels overwhelming.

While stress is a common experience, it is essential to understand its impact on our well-being. The study highlights the importance of emotional regulation in managing stress effectively. By developing emotional competence and adopting strategies to manage stress, individuals can improve their overall mental health and move towards a more balanced and resilient state. It’s never too late to start prioritising your emotional well-being and finding ways to navigate life’s challenges with greater ease and peace of mind.

References:

http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.ynstr.2022.100454