Stress
When the pressure becomes too much.
Stress isn’t all bad – it can help you focus under pressure and react to danger. But when it becomes chronic, your brain and body suffer. Stress hormones flood your system, keeping you on high alert. Over time, this can lead to anxiety, depression, memory problems and even physical conditions like high blood pressure and heart disease.
It feels like ...
Like trying to keep your head above water while carrying a load that keeps getting heavier. Some days, you push through.
Other days, even small things – like a taxi hooting or a long queue – can push you over the edge.
How stress affects your brain
High Cortisol
Stuck in survival mode
Cortisol, the body's main stress hormone, is helpful in short bursts, but when levels stay high, it keeps your body on constant alert, leading to Anxiety, poor sleep and exhaustion.
Brain's 'command centre' overloaded
Foggy thinking, poor decisions
The brain's command centre – the Prefrontal Cortex – is responsible for decision-making and controlling our impulses. It struggles under stress, making it harder to focus, plan or manage your emotions.
Brain's 'alarm system' in overdrive
Always on edge
Your brain's 'alarm system' (a brain region called the Amygdala) becomes overly sensitive, making even small pressures feel overwhelming and keeping you feeling fearful and anxious.
Inflammation
Brain communication breakdown
Long-term stress causes inflammation in the body, which can interfere with brain signals. This can lead to brain fog, low energy and even increase the risk of depression.
Disrupted Brain Chemicals
Low mood, less motivation
Stress affects the brain's 'feel good' chemicals. This means less motivation and pleasure, and can contribute to mood swings and feelings of sadness.
Quick self-check
It's tough to know if the weight of stress is too much unless you take a step back. This simple tool helps you gauge where you're at. No judgement, just a snapshot to understand how stress might be affecting you.
Take the self-assessment here
GET HELP
Reach out to a toll-free crisis helpline now for 24/7 support and understanding.
If you or a loved one is struggling with brain health challenges, you don't have to face it alone. SADAG 24-hour Crisis Helpline
0800 567 567
