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Mayo Clinic Nicotine Dependence Center Residential Treatment Program

Stress?Stress?

We’re may change how you think about stress

Stress is the system by which resources and energy are allocated to meet demands and challenges in the environment

PERFORMANCE

STRESS LEVEL

Optimal performance

Under performing Depleted

Stress, energy, and arousal

The BrainEVALUATE INPUT, MAKE DECISIONS, INHIBIT RESPONSES

Hypo/pit

Autonomic control

•Arouses the body

•‘fight or flight’

•Purpose is to manage energy and resources to meet perceived demands and challenges that are an immediate threat

Sympathetic Nervous system – get ready to rumble…

There is a (much neglected) OFF system The Parasympathetic Nervous System

•Calms the body

•Promotes enjoyment, relaxation, digestion, sexual arousal

•Purpose is to conserve resources and allow you to restore resources and energy.

There is an on and OFF system The Parasympathetic Nervous System

The Sympathetic nervous system is built to meet immediate and life threatening demands

Most of the demands we face today are not immediate

We get chronically stuck in the on position

Lowered immune response Coronary artery disease Insulin resistance Type II Diabetes Obesity Insomnia Chronic fatigue and chronic pain ……..

Impatience Anger Depression Substance abuse and addiction Difficulty concentrating Relationship difficulties

Strengthen executive function Positive self talk Rational assessment of threats and demands Realistic expectations

Strengthen the body Exercise Good health habits Good eating

Strengthen social connections Exercise the Parasympathetic system (off)

Relaxation/meditation Recreation Laugh, Laugh, Laugh

Strengthen the spirit Sense of being secure in the world and in your life

Healthy activity Healthy thinking Social support Practiced relaxation Spiritual connection

Let’s get started