The nervous system and stress: how tension affects health and how to protect yourself

How the nervous system works

The nervous system is a complex network that controls the functioning of all organs and systems in the body. It is divided into:

• Central nervous system (CNS) — brain and spinal cord

• Peripheral nervous system — nerves that connect the CNS to all parts of the body

• Autonomic (vegetative) nervous system — regulates unconscious processes such as heartbeat, breathing, digestion

An important role in the stress response is played by autonomic nervous system, which is divided into sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions. During stress, the sympathetic system is activated - a "fight or flight" reaction occurs.

What is stress from a neurophysiological perspective?

Stress is not just emotional tension. It is neurochemical reaction, in which the brain activates the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and adrenal glands (the so-called HGN-axis), which leads to the release of stress hormones: adrenaline, noradrenaline and cortisol.

These hormones cause:

• increased heartbeat

• increased blood pressure

• rapid breathing

• vasoconstriction

• increased attention and reaction

How chronic stress damages the nervous system

Short-term stress is a natural adaptive response. The problem arises when stress lasts a long time, and the nervous system does not have time to recover.

The main effects on the nervous system:

• Exhaustion neurotransmitters (serotonin, dopamine) - depression, anxiety

• Sleep disturbances due to brain hyperactivation

• Chronic fatigue syndrome

• Autonomic disorders (headaches, tachycardia, sweating)

• Impaired memory and concentration

• Eating disorders

• Decreased neuroplasticity — decreased ability of the brain to adapt to new

Typical signs of stress overload of the nervous system

• irritability, emotional instability

• concentration problems

• insomnia or light sleep

• constant anxiety for no specific reason

• muscle tension (especially in the neck and back)

• decreased working capacity

• apathy, depressive thoughts

An example of the impact of stress on health

Situation:
An office worker regularly works overtime, has limited rest, and is constantly communicating with clients. After a few months, he begins to experience constant anxiety, sleep problems, and chest pain.

Conclusion:
The autonomic nervous system is in a state of hyperexcitation. Diagnosed autonomic dysfunction. Psychotherapy, sleep normalization, physical activity, and B vitamins are recommended.

What helps reduce the load on the nervous system