226 The Psychology of Stress Management: Coping Strategies for Modern Life

Aurabet9, Mg Lion: Chronic stress can have profound effects on mental health. When stress becomes overwhelming and prolonged, it can lead to anxiety disorders, depression, and other mental health conditions. The constant activation of the body’s stress response system can disrupt the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain, contributing to mood disturbances and cognitive impairments.

Moreover, prolonged stress can also impact the brain’s structure and function. Studies have shown that stress can shrink the hippocampus, a key brain region involved in memory and learning. This structural change can further exacerbate mental health issues and impair cognitive abilities.