Is it possible that stress is a positive thing?

Kelly Mcgonigal talks about the different stress responses such as, palpitating heart, sweaty palms among other reactions as an energy to help you cope with the upcoming situation. What if you could shift your perception of stress to help you in stressful times?

Many neuroscientists have been studying this exact theory. They have discovered what happens to the various chemicals in your brain when you are under perceived threat. 

Stress increases the levels of oxytocin which activates our prosocial tendencies.

Under stress it increases and activates these three parts of your brain, here’s a quick breakdown.

The social caregiving system is regulated by oxytocin. When this system is activated you feel more empathy, connection and trust. Also a stronger desire to bond and be closer to others. This system also inhibits the fear centers of the brain, thus increasing your courage. 

The reward system releases the neurotransmitter dopamine, activation of the reward system increases motivation while dampening fear. When your stress response includes a rush of dopamine it gives you the strength to do something meaningful. Dopamine also primes the brain for physical action making sure you don’t freeze under pressure.

The attunement system is driven by the neurotransmitter serotonin, when this system is activated it enhances your perception, intuition and self-control, this makes it easier to understand what is needed and helps ensure that your actions have the biggest positive impact. 

Understanding the above mentioned chemical reactions shows us how we can move from a fear stress response to a tending and befriending response. 

In other words, a tend and befriend response makes you social, brave and smart. 

Any time you choose to help others, you activate this state, caring for others triggers the biology of courage and creates hope. 

If we focus on helping, comforting and caring for our loved ones, we experience hope and connection. If instead, we focus on relieving our own distress then we remain in a fear state. 

You can have a listen to her short 14 minute Ted Talk below: 

Stay tuned for the next blog post. 

Your ‘easy to talk to’ therapist,

Kimberly Castle R.T.C

Kimberly Castle is a Registered Therapeutic Counsellor with a private practice in beautiful Kelowna, BC. She focuses on empowering individuals in all areas of their life. In her practice she works with individuals who have experienced trauma related symptoms, anxiety and depression. She also offers couples counselling and enjoys working with couples to expand their relationships.