New Delhi: Stress is often perceived simply as a short-term response to challenges; chronic stress can have serious and long-lasting effects on brain health. The brain is exquisitely sensitive to the depressant and can be adversely affected by long-term elevation of the stress hormone cortisol, which can produce cognitive decline, memory loss, and even structural changes in the brain.

Impact of Stress on the Brain

“During stress perception by the brain, cortisol is released after activating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Short bursts of cortisol increase awareness, whereas prolonged elevations decrease its neural function. Chronically elevated levels of cortisol impair the hippocampus, the vital center for memory and learning, impairing the ability to learn and memorize new information. This accounts for the recall and concentration challenges faced by people undergoing chronic stress,” said Dr.Vinit Banga, Director of neurology, at Fortis Hospital, Faridabad.

Behavioural and Emotional Decline

Chronic stress translates to accelerated brain aging. Studies suggest that long-term stress may shrink the prefrontal cortex, home of decision-making and emotional regulation. Any other emotional change would equal mood swings with increased anxiety alongside impaired concentration. Stress further prevents new cell production, growing cognitive rigidity, flexibility, and problem-solving.

Neurodegenerative Diseases

Increased factors for getting neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s have long been implicated with prolonged stress. Cortisol brings about inflammation and oxidative stress, leading to a faster demise of brain cells. Moreover, stress wreaks havoc with normal sleep patterns, which is one more potent enemy of memory consolidation and cognitive summation.

Maintaining Health Throughout the Brain

Stress management offers the best line of defense in maintaining cognitive functioning. Keeping active physically, practicing mindfulness, and consuming antioxidant-rich diet items may offer sufficient counterbalance against stress-induced brain injury. Such active life habits pound sleep, prioritize healthy social interactions and relationships, encourage omega-3s in diets, and so much more to ensure brain health is maintained and ultimately optimize cognitive capacity.