Differences in How Stress Affects Brain Activity

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Leaving the autonomic nervous system, the signal reaches the adrenal glands. Located at the top of the kidneys, the adrenal glands then release hormones called cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones course throughout the body, taking effect. Cortisol is a hormone that promotes survival, while adrenaline increases the heart rate and blood pressure. In reference to the project, as cortisol is released, a student would hope to get the best possible grade, working non-stop until the project is done. When cortisol is released, the “flight or flight” reaction is initiated, causing the body to be flooded with energy in the form of glucose. As for adrenaline, ones heart rate may increase, sending blood at a quicker pace throughout the body to other organs. This would cause someone to breathe quicker, taking in more oxygen. The oxygen is sent to the brain, heightening one’s senses. As the deadline approaches, the adrenaline released in the students’ bloodstream causes them to be on edge.
Stress isn’t always bad. Believe it or not, there is such a thing as positive stress. Commonly referred to as eustress, it can be brought upon by everyday tasks such as one thinking that they can conquer a challenging situation or riding a rollercoaster. This eustress would motivate the student to meet the goal of completing the project. When riding a rollercoaster, adrenaline takes over the body due to anticipation. One feels anxiety causing their hearts to beat faster, their legs to shake, and their stomach to flip. Without any stress and anxiety in one’s life, they wouldn’t function.
Men and women react to stress and anxiety differently. Men initiate a “fight or flight” response while women tend to take a more rational approach. When men are confront...

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...uroscience Class. 13 Nov. 2013. Mr. Lanese's Notes. Holy Cross High School, Waterbury.
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Mather, Mara, Nichole R. Lighthall, Lin Nga, and Marissa A. Gorlick. "Sex Differences in How Stress Affects Brain Activity During Face Viewing." Usc.edu. University of Southern California and the University of Texas, Austin, July 2010. Web. 9 Mar. 2014.
"New Releases." Understanding the Stress Response. N.p., n.d. Web. 10 Mar. 2014.
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"Abstract." National Center for Biotechnology Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine, 01 July 2005. Web. 09 Mar. 2014.
"The Human Brain - Stress." The Human Brain - Stress. N.p., n.d. Web. 09 Mar. 2014.
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