Nowadays, our lives are so busy and complicated that stress is unavoidable. The body’s natural response to stress is protective and adaptive: it mobilizes us to take action to deal with a threat. Then, when the threat ends, we return to a calmer state. But when stress becomes chronic, and the mobilization system does not shutdown, there are serious negative effects on the body.

Recent research has shown that several areas of the brain are reduced in size in those with high levels of chronic stress. The affected areas are associated with memory, reasoning and decision making, emotion, and self-control

Chronic stress also has negative effects on the immune system, making us more vulnerable to disease. It is estimated that 70% of all doctor’s visits are stress related. Headaches, stomach aches, muscle tension, irritability and emotional distress are common stress related difficulties.

Studies show that biofeedback can be an effective way to reduce stress and teach your nervous system to regain a state of calm. Talk with your NDC psychologist about biofeedback and other ways to better handle stress.