Sydney, 22 May (IANS). According to a study, acute stress can disrupt the ability of the brain to control feelings, especially in those who are struggling with mental health problems such as depression, anxiety or borderline personality disorder.
News agency Xinhua reported that researchers at Edith Kovan University (ECU) of Australia found that stress could temporarily affect brain functioning capabilities. These abilities, such as working memory, impulse control and flexibility, are very important to control emotions and decide under pressure.
University’s TJ Scott said that these executive capabilities are very important to control emotional reactions, especially in difficult situations.
He said that our research shows that people with stress related disorders can be more sensitive to obstructing their executive capabilities. Executive capabilities, such as remembering and using information, are very important for maintaining impulse control, mourning to change, maintaining emotional balance.
The research team reviewed 17 international studies and found that stress greatly affects working memory among people suffering from depression and weakens impulses control among people with borderline personality disorder.
Study co-author and ECU professor Joan Dixon said the results show why some people are unable to give good answers to general remedies such as cognitive behavior therapy. If acute stress hinders mental processes that help control emotions, it can weaken the person’s ability to benefit from these treatments, especially when stress is too high.
Study suggests that acute stress affects executive capabilities, but researchers say that more research is needed to understand personal differences and improve treatment strategies.
Researchers also suggested developing cognitive skills before emotionally intensive medical sessions. Scott said that it is important to understand how stress affects the functioning of the brain, to improve mental health results.
-IANS
PSK/AS
