Influence on health: global research

Influence on health: global research

1. Definition and classification of stress

Stress is an adaptive reaction of the body to any requirement or challenge presented to it, be it physical, psychological or social. Initially proposed by Hans Selye, the concept of stress describes it as a nonspecific reaction of the body to any requirement. This means that regardless of the nature of the stressor, the body reacts in a similar way, trying to restore homeostasis.

Stress is not an exceptionally negative phenomenon. Small doses of stress, called eustress, can increase productivity, motivation and concentration. However, chronic or intensive stress, distress has a destructive effect on physical and mental health.

Stress classification can be carried out according to various parameters:

• Duration:
  • Acute stress: A short -term, caused by a specific event (for example, exam, interview, sports competition). Usually does not have long -term harm.
  • Episodic acute stress: Frequent episodes of acute stress, often in people who are constantly “in the shooting” or take too many obligations. It can lead to irritability, headaches, increased blood pressure.
  • Chronic stress: Long -term, constant stress, which can be caused by financial difficulties, problem relations, chronic disease or complex working environment. The most destructive kind of stress.
• By the nature of the stressor:
  • Physiological stress: It is caused by physical factors, such as injuries, illnesses, lack of sleep, hunger, extreme temperatures.
  • Psychological stress: It is caused by psychological factors such as anxiety, fear, depression, self -doubt, social pressure.
  • Social stress: It is caused by social factors such as poverty, discrimination, isolation, conflicts, loss of loved ones.
• By the source of the stressor:
  • Interior stress: It occurs from the inside, for example, due to negative thoughts, perfectionism, unrealistic expectations.
  • External stress: It occurs from the outside, for example, due to work, study, family, relations, environment.

2. Neurobiological mechanisms of stress

The stress reaction is a complex neuroendocrine process, in which various body systems are involved, primarily a hypothalamic-pituitary-adhesive (GGN) axis and a sympathetic nervous system.

• Sympathetic nervous system (SNA): If a stressor is detected, the hypothalamus activates the SNA, which leads to the release of adrenaline and norepinephrine from the adrenal glands. This causes a number of physiological changes, such as increased heart rate, increased blood pressure, rapid breathing, expanding the pupils and redistribution of blood to the muscles. This reaction, known as “Beat or Run”, prepares the body to fight threat or escape from it.
• Hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal (GGN) axis: The hypothalamus releases the corticotropin-rilying hormone (KRG), which stimulates the pituitary gland to the release of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). ACTH, in turn, stimulates the adrenal glands to the release of cortisol. Cortisol is the main hormone of stress, which has a wide range of effects on the body, including increasing blood glucose, suppressing the immune system and mobilizing energy resources.
• The role of the brain:
  • Amygdala: Is responsible for processing emotions, especially fear and anxiety. The activation of amygdaly under stress leads to an increase in the emotional reaction.
  • Hippocampus: Plays an important role in the formation of memory and training. Chronic stress can damage the hippocampus, which leads to problems with memory and training.
  • Prefrontal bark: Is responsible for making decisions, planning and control of impulses. Chronic stress can weaken the function of prefrontal cortex, which leads to a decrease in self -control and impulsiveness.
• Neurotransmitter: Stress affects the level of various neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin, dopamine and GABA. Changes in the level of these neurotransmitters can contribute to the development of depression, anxiety and other mental disorders.

3. The effect of stress on the cardiovascular system

Chronic stress is a significant risk factor for the development of cardiovascular diseases (SVD). It has a direct and indirect effect on the cardiovascular system.

• Direct impact:
  • Improving blood pressure: Stress causes the release of adrenaline and norepinephrine, which leads to a narrowing of blood vessels and an increase in blood pressure. Chronically increased blood pressure damages the walls of the arteries and increases the risk of hypertension.
  • Incomination of the heartbeat: Stress also leads to a rapid heartbeat, which increases the load on the heart.
  • Atherosclerosis: Chronic stress contributes to inflammation in the walls of arteries, which is one of the key factors in the development of atherosclerosis (the formation of plaques in the arteries). Inflammation damages the endothelium, the inner shell of the arteries, which facilitates the deposition of cholesterol and other substances that form plaques.
  • Cardiac violation: Stress can cause arrhythmias, irregular heart contractions that can be life -threatening.
• Indirect impact:
  • Incorrect lifestyle: Stress often leads to an unhealthy lifestyle, such as smoking, alcohol abuse, improper nutrition and lack of physical activity. These factors in themselves are risk factors for the development of SVD.
  • Increased cholesterol level: Stress can increase the level of “bad” cholesterol (LDL) and reduce the level of “good” cholesterol (HDL), which contributes to the development of atherosclerosis.
  • Increased blood coagulation: Stress can increase blood coagulation, which increases the risk of blood clots and the development of myocardial infarction and stroke.
• Research: Numerous studies confirm the relationship between stress and SVD. For example, studies show that people experiencing chronic stress at work or in their personal lives have an increased risk of developing hypertension, coronary heart disease and stroke. Studies also have shown that psychological interventions aimed at reducing stress can reduce the risk of SVD.

4. The impact of stress on the immune system

Stress has a complex and multifaceted effect on the immune system. Short -term stress can stimulate the immune system, but chronic stress, on the contrary, suppresses it, making the body more susceptible to infections and other diseases.

• Acute stress: During acute stress, stress hormones, such as cortisol and adrenaline, which can temporarily increase the immune function occurs. For example, cortisol can redistribute immune cells, such as leukocytes, to blood flow, which allows them to respond faster to infections. However, this increase in the immune function is short -lived and is not preserved with chronic stress.
• Chronic stress: Chronic stress suppresses the immune system in various ways:
  • Suppression of the function of immune cells: The cortisol, which is released in chronic stress, can suppress the function of immune cells, such as T cells, B cells and natural killers (NK cells). This leads to a decrease in the body’s ability to fight infections and cancer cells.
  • Increase in inflammation: Although cortisol has anti -inflammatory properties, chronic stress can lead to chronic inflammation in the body. This is due to the fact that chronic stress can violate the regulation of inflammatory processes, leading to excessive production of inflammatory cytokines. Chronic inflammation is associated with the development of many diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, arthritis and cancer.
  • Reducing the number of immune cells: Chronic stress can reduce the amount of certain types of immune cells, such as lymphocytes, which also weakens immune protection.
• Influence on specific diseases:
  • Infectious diseases: People experiencing chronic stress are more susceptible to infectious diseases, such as colds, influenza and herpes.
  • Autoimmune diseases: Stress can play a role in the development and exacerbation of autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus and multiple sclerosis.
  • Cancer: Chronic stress can affect the development and progression of cancer, suppressing the immune system and contributing to the growth of tumors.
• Research: Numerous studies have shown that people experiencing chronic stress have an increased risk of developing infectious diseases, autoimmune diseases and cancer. For example, studies have shown that medical workers experiencing a high level of stress are more susceptible to upper respiratory tract infections.

5. The effect of stress on the gastrointestinal tract (gastrointestinal tract)

Stress has a significant effect on the digestive tract, disrupting its normal function and contributing to the development of various diseases. The connection between the brain and the gastrointestinal tract, known as the “axis of the ceremic brain”, plays a key role in this process.

• Physiological changes:
  • Change in the motor skills: Stress can cause both acceleration and slowdown of the gastrointestinal tract. Acceleration of motor skills can lead to diarrhea, and slowing down to constipation.
  • Increased intestinal sensitivity: Stress can increase the intestinal sensitivity to pain and discomfort, which can lead to a feeling of bloating, cramps and abdominal pain.
  • Change in intestinal permeability: Chronic stress can increase intestinal permeability, allowing bacteria and other substances to penetrate the bloodstream, which can cause inflammation and other health problems.
  • Change of intestinal microbiots: Stress can change the composition and function of the microbiots of the intestines, the community of microorganisms that live in the gastrointestinal tract. This can lead to dysbiosis, microbiotic balance impaired, which can contribute to the development of various diseases.
• Influence on specific diseases:
  • Irritable intestine syndrome (SRK): SRK is a functional disorder of the gastrointestinal tract characterized by abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea or constipation. Stress is one of the main factors that contribute to the development and exacerbation of SRK.
  • Inflammatory diseases of the intestine (BCC): ISC, such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, are characterized by chronic inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. Stress can aggravate the symptoms of BCC and increase the risk of exacerbations.
  • Peptic ulcer: Although the Helicobacter pylori bacterium is the main cause of peptic ulcer, stress can slow down the healing of ulcers and increase the risk of relapse.
  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERB): Stress can enhance the symptoms of GERB, such as heartburn and belching, due to the relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter.
• Here’s a bone-bone: The connection between the brain and the gastrointestinal tract is carried out through the axis of the brain-mesh, a complex communication system, including the nervous system, the endocrine system and the immune system. Stress can disrupt the function of the axis of the ceremic brain, which leads to gastrointestinal dysfunction.
• Research: Numerous studies have shown that stress plays an important role in the development and exacerbation of various gastrointestinal diseases. For example, studies have shown that people experiencing a high level of stress have an increased risk of developing SRK and OKK.

6. The effect of stress on the endocrine system

Stress has a deep effect on the endocrine system, a complex network of glands that produce and secrete hormones that regulate various functions of the body. The most significant is the effect on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (GGN) axis, but stress also affects other endocrine glands, such as thyroid gland, pancreas and sex glands.

• Hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal (GGN) axis: As already mentioned, the GGN axis plays a key role in the reaction of the body to stress. Chronic activation of the GAG ​​axis leads to an increased level of cortisol, the main hormone of stress. Chronically increased cortisol level can have a negative effect on many organs and systems, including:
  • Violation of regulation of glucose levels in the blood: Cortisol increases the level of glucose in the blood, which can lead to insulin resistance and the development of type 2 diabetes.
  • Reducing the function of the immune system: Cortisol suppresses the function of immune cells, making the body more susceptible to infections.
  • Violation of metabolism: Cortisol helps to deposit fat in the abdomen, which is associated with an increased risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and diabetes.
  • Violation of cognitive functions: The cortisol can damage the hippocampus, the area of ​​the brain that is responsible for memory and training, which leads to problems with memory and concentration of attention.
• Thyroid gland: Stress can affect the function of the thyroid gland, which produces hormones that regulate metabolism. Chronic stress can lead to a decrease in the function of the thyroid gland (hypothyroidism) or to increased its function (hyperthyroidism).
• Pancreas: Stress can affect the function of the pancreas, which produces insulin, a hormone that regulates the level of glucose in the blood. Chronic stress can lead to insulin resistance and the development of type 2 diabetes.
• Sex glands: Stress can affect the function of the sex glands, ovaries in women and testicles in men who produce sex hormones. In women, stress can lead to irregular menstrual cycles, a decrease in fertility and exacerbation of the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). In men, stress can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels, erectile dysfunction and a decrease in libido.
• Research: Numerous studies have shown that stress can disrupt the function of the endocrine system and contribute to the development of various diseases. For example, studies have shown that people experiencing chronic stress have an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, hypothyroidism and sexual dysfunction.

7. The impact of stress on mental health

Stress is one of the main risk factors for the development of various mental disorders, including anxiety, depression, post -traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and eating disorders.

• Anxiety: Stress can cause and strengthen disturbing disorders, such as generalized alarming disorder, panic disorder and social alarm. Chronic stress can lead to a constant state of anxiety and anxiety, which can significantly reduce the quality of life.
• Depression: Stress is one of the main factors contributing to the development of depression. Chronic stress can lead to the exhaustion of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine, which play an important role in mood regulation.
• Post -traumatic stress disorder (PTSR): PTSD is a mental disorder that can develop after the experience of a traumatic event, such as war, natural disaster, violence or accident. Stress associated with a traumatic event can lead to the development of PTSD.
• Disorders of food behavior: Stress can play a role in the development of eating disorders, such as anorexia, bulimia and compulsive overeating. Some people use food as a way to cope with stress, which can lead to unhealthy nutrition models and the development of eating disorders.
• Influence mechanisms:
  • Changing the structure and function of the brain: Stress can change the structure and function of the brain, especially in areas responsible for emotions, memory and decision making. For example, chronic stress can reduce the size of the hippocampus, the area of ​​the brain responsible for memory.
  • Violation of the regulation of neurotransmitters: Stress can violate the regulation of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine, which play an important role in the regulation of mood, sleep and appetite.
  • Genetic predisposition: Some people are more susceptible to the negative impact of stress due to genetic predisposition.
• Research: Numerous studies have shown that stress plays an important role in the development of various mental disorders. For example, studies have shown that people experiencing a high level of stress have an increased risk of anxiety, depression and PTSD.

8. Stress and reproductive health

Stress has a significant impact on reproductive health in both women and men, affecting fertility, hormonal balance and overall well -being.

• Influence on female reproductive health:
  • Irregular menstrual cycles: Stress can disrupt the hormonal balance, which leads to irregular menstrual cycles, including amenorrhea (lack of menstruation) and oligomenorrhea (rare menstruation).
  • Reduced fertility: Chronic stress can reduce fertility, making it difficult to conception. Stress can affect ovulation, embryo implantation and gestation.
  • Exacerbation of PMS symptoms: Stress can aggravate the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), such as irritability, anxiety, depression and bloating.
  • Pregnancy complications: A high level of stress during pregnancy can increase the risk of premature birth, low birth weight and other complications.
  • Postnatal depression: Stress after childbirth can increase the risk of postnatal depression.
• Influence on male reproductive health:
  • Dressing the level of testosterone: Stress can reduce the level of testosterone, the main male sex hormone, which can lead to a decrease in libido, erectile dysfunction and a decrease in muscle mass.
  • Reducing the quality of sperm: Stress can negatively affect the quality of sperm, reducing the number of sperm, their mobility and morphology.
  • Erectile dysfunction: Stress is one of the main factors contributing to the development of erectile dysfunction.
  • Libido decrease: Stress can reduce libido (sexual desire).
• Influence mechanisms:
  • Hormonal balance violation: Stress can violate the production of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GNRG), luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which play an important role in the regulation of reproductive function.
  • Activation of the GGN axis: Stress can activate the GGN axis, which leads to an increased level of cortisol, which can suppress the reproductive function.
  • Reducing the blood supply to reproductive organs: Stress can narrow blood vessels, which reduces the blood supply to the reproductive organs.
• Research: Numerous studies have shown that stress has a negative impact on reproductive health in both women and men. For example, studies have shown that women experiencing a high level of stress have a lower probability of conception and increased risk of pregnancy complications.

9. The effect of stress on cognitive functions

Stress has a complex and multifaceted effect on cognitive functions, affecting memory, attention, decision -making and executive functions. Depending on the intensity, duration and context, stress can have both positive and negative effects on cognitive processes.

• Acute stress: In the short term, acute stress can improve some cognitive functions, such as attention and reaction rate. This is due to the fact that stress causes the release of adrenaline and norepinephrine, which can increase vigilance and concentration. However, excessive acute stress can lead to disorganization of thinking and a decrease in cognitive efficiency.
• Chronic stress: Chronic stress has a predominantly negative effect on cognitive functions. He can lead to:
  • Memory violation: Chronic stress can damage the hippocampus, the area of ​​the brain that is responsible for the memory, which leads to problems with the formation of new memories and the extraction of old ones.
  • Reduction of attention: Chronic stress can reduce the ability to concentrate and hold attention.
  • Decision violation: Chronic stress can weaken the function of the prefrontal cortex, the brain area responsible for making decisions, planning and control of impulses, which leads to impulsiveness and the adoption of rash decisions.
  • Reduction of executive functions: Chronic stress can reduce executive functions, such as planning, organization, flexibility of thinking and self -control.
• Influence mechanisms:
  • Changing the structure and function of the brain: Stress can change the structure and function of the brain, especially in areas responsible for cognitive functions, such as hippocampus and prefrontal bark.
  • Violation of the regulation of neurotransmitters: Stress can violate the regulation of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine, which play an important role in cognitive processes.
  • Increase in inflammation: Chronic stress can lead to chronic inflammation in the brain, which can damage neurons and disrupt cognitive functions.
• Influence on specific cognitive areas:
  • Working memory: Stress can reduce the capacity and efficiency of working memory, a system that allows you to temporarily store and process information.
  • Attention: Stress can reduce the ability to concentrate and keep attention, which leads to distraction and forgetfulness.
  • Executive functions: Stress can disrupt executive functions, such as planning, organization, flexibility of thinking and self -control.
• Research: Numerous studies have shown that stress has a negative effect on cognitive functions. For example, studies have shown that people experiencing a high level of stress have the worst indicators in memory tests, attention and executive functions.

10. Factors affecting the susceptibility to stress

Susceptibility to stress varies from person to person and depends on many factors, including genetics, personal characteristics, social support, life experience and strategies with stress.

• Genetics: A genetic predisposition plays a certain role in determining the susceptibility to stress. Some people are genetically more prone to the development of disturbing and depressive disorders in response to stress. The genes involved in the regulation of the GGN axis and neurotransmitter systems can affect stress susceptibility.
• Personal features: Some personal characteristics, such as neuroticism (a tendency to negative emotions) and perfectionism, can increase susceptibility to stress. People with a high level of neuroticism are more likely to perceive situations as stressful and respond to them more intensively. Perfectionists can experience more stress due to high requirements for themselves and fear to make a mistake.
• Social support: Social support plays an important role in reducing stress exposure. The presence of supporting relationships with family, friends and colleagues can help cope with stress and increase resistance to it.
• Life experience: Early life experience, such as children’s trauma or neglect, can increase susceptibility to stress at a later age. Adverse children’s experience can change the structure and function of the brain, making a person more susceptible to the negative impact of stress.
• Strategies of stress with stress: Strategies of coping with stress that a person uses can significantly affect his susceptibility to stress. Adaptive strategies of coping, such as physical activity, meditation, social support and solving problems, can help to cope with stress and increase resistance to it. Non -adaptive strategies of coping, such as alcohol abuse, drug use and avoidance, can aggravate stress and reduce resistance to it.
• Age: Susceptibility to stress can change with age. Children and adolescents are especially vulnerable to the negative impact of stress, since their brain is still in development. Older people can also be more susceptible to stress due to age-related changes in the brain and body.
• Floor: There are sexual differences in susceptibility to stress. Women, as a rule, are more prone to the development of anxious and depressive disorders in response to stress than men. This may be associated with hormonal differences, as well as with social and cultural factors.

11. Methods for assessing stress levels

There are various methods for assessing the level of stress that can be used to monitor and control stress. These methods can be divided into subjective and objective.

• Subjective methods: Subjective methods are based on a person’s self -reporting about their level of stress. They include:
  • Profiles and questionnaires: There are various questionnaires and questionnaires that can be used to assess the level of stress, such as the perceived stress (PERCEID STRESS Scale, PSS), the Spielberger anxiety scale (State-trait anxiety Inventory, Stai) and the Beck depression questionnaire. Inventory, BDI).
  • Stress diaries: In a stress diary, a person writes out events that caused him stress, his thoughts and feelings in response to these events, as well as his strategies for coping with stress.
  • Interview: A qualified specialist can interview a person to assess his stress level and identify factors that contribute to stress.
• Objective methods: Objective methods are based on the measurement of physiological indicators associated with stress. They include:
  • Measurement of the level of cortisol: Cortisol is a stress hormone that is produced by the adrenal glands in response to stress. The level of cortisol can be measured in blood, saliva or urine.
  • Measurement of blood pressure and heart rate: Stress causes an increase in blood pressure and heart rate.
  • Measurement of variability of heart rhythm (VCR): VCR is an indicator of changes in the intervals between heart attacks. Low SLE is associated with a high level of stress.
  • Measurement of the level of alpha-amylase saliva: Alpha-amylase saliva is an enzyme that is produced by salivary glands in response to stress.
  • Neuroimijing: Neuroimijing methods, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and electroencephalography (EEG), can be used to study changes in the structure and function of the brain associated with stress.
• Choosing the method: The choice of the method of assessing the level of stress depends on the purpose of the assessment, available resources and individual preferences. Subjective methods are easy to use and relatively inexpensive, but they can be prone to bias. Objective methods are more accurate, but they can be more expensive and invasive.

12. Stress control methods

There are many effective stress management methods that can help reduce stress, improve mental and physical health and improve the quality of life. These methods can be divided into behavioral, cognitive and physiological.

• Behavioral methods: Behavioral methods are aimed at changing behavior that contributes to stress. They include:
  • Time management: Organization of time, placement of priorities and delegation of tasks can help reduce the feeling of overload and stress.
  • Physical activity: Regular physical activity is an effective way to reduce stress. Physical exercises help to release endorphins, hormones that improve mood and reduce pain.
  • Proper nutrition: Proper nutrition can help improve mood, reduce anxiety and increase energy. It is important to use a sufficient amount of fruits, vegetables, whole grain products and low -fat protein.
  • Sufficient sleep: A lack of sleep can aggravate stress. It is important to sleep at least 7-8 hours a day.
  • Avoiding bad habits: Alcohol abuse, drug use and smoking can aggravate stress and negatively affect health.
  • Social support: Supporting relationships with family, friends and colleagues can help cope with stress and increase resistance to it.
  • Regular rest: Regular breaks and vacation can help reduce stress and restore strength.
• Cognitive methods: Cognitive methods are aimed at changing thoughts and beliefs that contribute to stress. They include:
  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy (KPT): KPT is a type of psychotherapy that helps people to identify and change the negative thoughts and beliefs that contribute to stress, anxiety and depression.
  • Rational-emotional behavioral therapy (RPT): Rapt is a type of psychotherapy that helps people to identify and change irrational thoughts and beliefs that contribute to stress.
  • Meditation of awareness: Meditation of awareness is a practice that includes focusing attention on the present moment, without condemning your thoughts and feelings. Meditation of awareness can help reduce stress, anxiety and depression.
  • Positive thinking: Focusing attention on the positive aspects of life and gratitude can help reduce stress and improve mood.
• Physiological methods: Physiological methods are aimed at reducing the physiological reaction to stress. They include:
  • Respiratory exercises: Respiratory exercises can help