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Exploring the physiology of stress, this content delves into how the body's response systems like the SAM and HPA axis affect health. It examines the influence of personality traits, such as Type A and Type C, on stress reactivity and disease risk. The concept of psychological hardiness and cultural impacts on stress perception and coping are also discussed, highlighting the complexity of stress-related health issues.
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The SAM initiates the immediate fight-or-flight response, releasing adrenaline and noradrenaline to increase heart rate, blood pressure, and energy availability
The HPA axis orchestrates a more prolonged response by secreting cortisol, which maintains elevated blood sugar and blood pressure while dampening non-essential bodily functions
Prolonged or chronic stress can lead to numerous health problems, including gastrointestinal issues, chronic headaches, sleep disorders, autoimmune diseases, hypertension, metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular diseases, and increased risk for stroke
The Type A and Type B personality theory suggests that Type A individuals, characterized by competitiveness, urgency, and aggression, are at a higher risk for coronary heart disease (CHD) than Type B individuals, who are more relaxed and less driven
The Type C personality, associated with traits such as passivity, compliance, and suppression of emotions, may be linked to an increased risk of cancer, although research has produced mixed results
Psychological hardiness, characterized by commitment, control, and challenge, may serve as a buffer against stress and its negative health effects
Cultural norms and interpretations of stressors can significantly influence physiological stress responses, with some groups exhibiting higher prevalence of stress-related health conditions
Cultural differences can shape coping strategies, with some cultures emphasizing collective support and spirituality, while others promote individualistic, problem-solving methods
Understanding cultural factors is essential for developing targeted interventions and support systems to alleviate the detrimental health effects of stress
00
The ______ Pathway is responsible for the immediate 'fight-or-flight' response, releasing hormones to prepare the body for action.
Sympathomedullary (SAM)
01
During stress, the ______ axis releases cortisol, which helps in managing prolonged stress by keeping blood sugar and pressure high.
Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA)
02
Chronic stress can lead to health issues such as sleep disorders, ______, and an increased risk for stroke.
cardiovascular diseases
