How do you handle stress? Do you check out, act out, or talk it out? The answer might depend on your body’s hormonal responses.
The human body responds to stressors by sending a flood of hormones—cortisol and epinephrine, among others—that galvanize the body to protect and defend. Research suggests the female brain responds differently to stress than the male brain. Psychologists take it a step further, noting certain behavioral differences and even attitudes between the sexes in dealing with stress.
Biology. Women typically have higher levels of the hormone oxytocin, which can help in reducing blood pressure and cortisol levels. The female brain also produces estrogen, which similarly cushions the effects of stress. Yet these protections have a limited shelf life as both hormones decline dramatically as women age.
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Behavior. Stress reactivity—how we feel about a stressor and how we cope with it—can vary with the individual. Yet psychologists have observed the power of environmental influences, noting that males are often conditioned to respond to stressful situations with anger or bluster. Or they may do the opposite—retreat into distracting behaviors or denial. Women, taught from childhood to tamp down negative emotions, often develop strategies for negotiation and compromise. But beware: stewing over past hurts or projecting negative outcomes only perpetuates the stress cycle.
Coping Strategies. Under normal conditions, the response to acute stress subsides after the threat has passed. But when chronic stress keeps the nervous system at high-alert levels, it can take a significant toll on the body and mind. If your stress is getting out of control and you need quick relief, try one (or more) of these physician-approved, time-tested strategies: get enough sleep and regular exercise; improve your diet; meditate; get outside in nature; spend time with friends doing things you love; and laugh more. Seek counseling if you feel unable to overcome stress with self-care. It’s one more solution that women are more likely to try than men.
Donna Moriarty is a lifelong writer, editor and author who writes about education, wellness, and personal development. She and her husband are Ossining residents, with three grown children and two elderly dachshunds. Learn (and read) more at www.silversmithwriting.com
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17 Jun 2023
0 Commentsstress and the female brain
How do you handle stress? Do you check out, act out, or talk it out? The answer might depend on your body’s hormonal responses.
The human body responds to stressors by sending a flood of hormones—cortisol and epinephrine, among others—that galvanize the body to protect and defend. Research suggests the female brain responds differently to stress than the male brain. Psychologists take it a step further, noting certain behavioral differences and even attitudes between the sexes in dealing with stress.
Biology. Women typically have higher levels of the hormone oxytocin, which can help in reducing blood pressure and cortisol levels. The female brain also produces estrogen, which similarly cushions the effects of stress. Yet these protections have a limited shelf life as both hormones decline dramatically as women age.
Please join us at the October 1, 2023 Booming BETTER Expo in Purchase, NY for a day of fun, learning and engagement. Pre-register for a chance to win!
Behavior. Stress reactivity—how we feel about a stressor and how we cope with it—can vary with the individual. Yet psychologists have observed the power of environmental influences, noting that males are often conditioned to respond to stressful situations with anger or bluster. Or they may do the opposite—retreat into distracting behaviors or denial. Women, taught from childhood to tamp down negative emotions, often develop strategies for negotiation and compromise. But beware: stewing over past hurts or projecting negative outcomes only perpetuates the stress cycle.
Coping Strategies. Under normal conditions, the response to acute stress subsides after the threat has passed. But when chronic stress keeps the nervous system at high-alert levels, it can take a significant toll on the body and mind. If your stress is getting out of control and you need quick relief, try one (or more) of these physician-approved, time-tested strategies: get enough sleep and regular exercise; improve your diet; meditate; get outside in nature; spend time with friends doing things you love; and laugh more. Seek counseling if you feel unable to overcome stress with self-care. It’s one more solution that women are more likely to try than men.