Chronic Stress and Health Quiz
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Questions and Answers

What is the relationship between chronic stress and telomerase levels?

  • Chronic stress increases telomerase levels.
  • Chronic stress has no impact on telomerase levels.
  • Chronic stress decreases telomerase levels. (correct)
  • Chronic stress only affects telomere length.
  • In the context of mental health, how does chronic social stress affect dopamine binding?

  • Dopamine binding is reduced in subordinate monkeys. (correct)
  • Dopamine binding is unaffected by social status.
  • Dopamine binding is increased in subordinate monkeys.
  • Dopamine binding is equally low in both dominant and subordinate monkeys.
  • What distinguishes problem-focused coping from emotion-focused coping?

  • Emotion-focused coping emphasizes physical activities to reduce stress.
  • Problem-focused coping addresses emotions directly.
  • Emotion-focused coping aims to remove stressors.
  • Problem-focused coping reduces the stressors themselves. (correct)
  • What is a potential negative consequence of using emotion-focused coping?

    <p>Magnifying emotional distress. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the concept of 'healthspan' focus on in relation to lifespan?

    <p>Ensuring optimal health until the end of life. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does a high stress level affect the likelihood of catching a cold?

    <p>It increases the chance of catching a cold. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role do telomeres play in cellular aging?

    <p>They protect chromosomes from degradation. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which group is more likely to develop hypertension based on stress levels?

    <p>Individuals working at high-stress airports. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary consequence of telomere shortening in cells?

    <p>Cellular senescence and death. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement best describes the relationship between chronic stress and mental health?

    <p>Chronic stress can worsen mental health conditions. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one implication of chronic stress on telomeres?

    <p>It accelerates telomere shortening. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a physiological effect of long-term stress on the cardiovascular system?

    <p>Increased risk of heart disease. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What most accurately reflects a strategy for managing stress?

    <p>Engaging in regular physical activity. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the relationship between social support and health outcomes?

    <p>Social support is linked to improved health and longevity. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does positive appraisal affect brain activity during stress?

    <p>Increases prefrontal cortex activity and decreases amygdala activity. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements about chronic stress effects is most accurate?

    <p>Chronic stress can accelerate telomere shortening. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one effect of laughter on the stress response?

    <p>It decreases stress hormones. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which effect is associated with catastrophic events in the long term?

    <p>Sleep disorders such as nightmares (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In terms of stress management, which appraisal is considered more effective?

    <p>Approaching challenges with a positive mindset. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What can exacerbate chronic daily difficulties?

    <p>Experiencing bullying or oppression (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role does the prefrontal cortex play in the stress response?

    <p>It reduces amygdala activity during positive appraisal. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the sympathetic nervous system respond during a stress situation?

    <p>Stimulates the adrenal gland to release adrenaline (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common consequence of high levels of chronic stress on the body?

    <p>Increased levels of blood pressure. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How can stress management techniques impact mental health?

    <p>Effective techniques can promote resilience and reduce mental health issues. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a characteristic of stressors?

    <p>They are perceived as overwhelmingly challenging (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which physiological response is NOT part of the body's 'fight or flight' mechanism?

    <p>Enhanced digestive function (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which neurotransmitter systems are influenced by perceived stress?

    <p>Systems related to arousal and attention. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What impact can chronic stress have on mental health?

    <p>Increased risk of developing anxiety disorders (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the effect of a negative appraisal of stressors?

    <p>It can result in stress-induced distraction. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which situation could lead to chronic stress through a lack of control?

    <p>Living under oppressive political conditions (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common misconception about the stress response?

    <p>It is always harmful and negative (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role do daily difficulties play in relation to stress?

    <p>They contribute to overall stress levels and discomfort (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which effect describes short-term responses to a catastrophic event?

    <p>Increased heart attacks on the day of the event (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which hormone is primarily responsible for the body's stress response in the context of the HPA axis?

    <p>Cortisol (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role does the hypothalamus play in the HPA axis?

    <p>It triggers the release of ACTH from the anterior pituitary. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which effect of stress is least likely to be associated with chronic activation of the sympathetic nervous system?

    <p>Enhanced digestive processes (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the potential impact of chronic stress on mental health?

    <p>Heightened risk of depression and anxiety (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following strategies is least effective in managing stress?

    <p>Isolation from social interactions (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does chronic stress contribute to hypertension?

    <p>By promoting long-term inflammation (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which component of the stress response is activated last in the sequence of the HPA axis?

    <p>Cortisol release from the adrenal cortex (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What signifies a prolonged effect of stress on telomeres?

    <p>Telomere shortening (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which physiological response is not directly activated by the sympathetic nervous system during stress?

    <p>Digestion enhancement (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which brain region is primarily responsible for activating the stress response?

    <p>Amygdala (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    Stress and Cold Vulnerability

    People experiencing high stress are more susceptible to catching colds compared to those less stressed.

    Chronic Stress and Hypertension

    Long-term stress can increase the risk of high blood pressure in different age groups, especially in high-stress environments like air traffic control.

    Social Hierarchy and Atherosclerosis

    In social hierarchies, the dominant monkey tends to show more arterial plaque buildup (atherosclerosis).

    Telomeres and Cell Division

    Telomeres are protective caps on chromosomes that shorten each time a cell divides. Shortened telomeres can lead to cell death and limit cell division.

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    Telomere Shortening and Aging

    Telomere shortening is linked to cellular aging, triggering stress responses associated with age-related diseases.

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    Stress and Accelerated Aging

    Chronic stress can accelerate the shortening of telomeres, potentially speeding up the aging process and diseases.

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    Senescent Cells

    Cells that stop dividing due to shortened telomeres. These cells secrete chemicals that trigger inflammation and diseases.

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    Telomere Function

    Telomeres protect the ends of chromosomes from damage, and each time a cell divides, telomeres become shorter.

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    Positive Appraisal

    Viewing a stressor as a challenge that can be overcome.

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    Negative Appraisal

    Viewing a stressor as overwhelming and insurmountable.

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    Prefrontal Cortex

    Brain region involved in higher-level thinking, including decision-making and emotional regulation.

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    Amygdala

    Brain region associated with fear and anxiety responses.

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    Stress Response

    Physical and psychological reaction to a perceived stressor.

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    Social Support

    Connection with others, including family, friends, and even pets, for emotional and physical well-being.

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    HPA Axis

    Hormonal system activated during stress, releasing cortisol.

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    Stressors

    Events or situations that cause stress.

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    Cortisol

    Stress hormone that increases arousal and alertness.

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    Classical Neurotransmitter Systems

    Chemical messengers in the brain that transmit signals related to stress and arousal.

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    What are stressors?

    Events or conditions perceived as overwhelmingly challenging, threatening, or harmful that trigger the body's stress response.

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    How do stressors vary?

    Stressors differ in intensity and persistence. Some are short-lived, while others are chronic.

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    What are catastrophic events?

    Events that most people agree are harmful and overwhelming, such as earthquakes, floods, or war.

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    What are the effects of catastrophic events?

    Short-term effects include increased heart attacks, while long-term effects can include depression, anxiety, and flashbacks.

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    What are chronic daily difficulties?

    Daily challenges caused by too many tasks, too little time, and too little control, often accentuated by lack of social power and freedom.

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    What is the stress response?

    The body's natural reaction to perceived threats, preparing us for vigorous activity (fight or flight).

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    What does the sympathetic nervous system do during stress?

    It activates the adrenal gland to release adrenaline, increasing energy, heart rate, breathing, and focus.

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    What is the function of adrenaline during stress?

    Adrenaline increases glucose (energy) availability, cardiovascular output, lung capacity, and attention.

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    Subordinate social status and stress

    Subordinate social status can lead to chronic stress due to limited control, power, and freedom.

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    Stress response is normal

    The stress response is a natural, protective mechanism, designed to help us face challenging situations.

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    Telomeres & Stress

    Chronic stress can shorten telomeres, which are protective caps on chromosomes. Shortened telomeres are associated with aging and disease.

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    Stress & Dopamine

    Chronic stress can reduce dopamine binding in the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter linked to mood, motivation, and reward.

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    Dominant vs. Subordinate

    Subordinate monkeys in social hierarchies experience more stress, leading to lower dopamine levels and reduced dopamine binding in their brains.

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    Healthspan vs. Lifespan

    Healthspan focuses on maximizing healthy years of life, while lifespan simply measures the length of life.

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    Problem-focused coping

    Addressing the source of stress directly to reduce its impact. Example: working out a conflict or tackling a difficult project.

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    Pupil dilation

    The pupils of the eyes widen during stress, allowing more light to enter and improve vision. This is part of the "fight or flight" response, enhancing alertness and awareness.

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    Bronchial dilation

    The airways in the lungs expand during stress, allowing for increased oxygen intake. This helps the body prepare for physical exertion or escape.

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    Heart rate & blood pressure

    Stress triggers a rapid increase in heart rate and blood pressure, pumping more blood and oxygen to muscles for quick action. This prepares the body for a physical response.

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    Glucose release from liver

    The liver releases stored glucose (sugar) into the bloodstream during stress to provide immediate energy. This fuels the body for quick action.

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    Adrenaline release

    The adrenal glands release adrenaline, a powerful hormone that triggers the "fight or flight" response, increasing heart rate, respiration, and blood flow to muscles.

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    Digestive processes

    Stress inhibits digestive processes like digestion and absorption of food. This is because the body prioritizes energy for immediate survival needs.

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    What does the SNS do?

    The Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS) is the body's quick-acting stress response system. It prepares the body for "fight or flight" by triggering changes like pupil dilation, increased heart rate, and glucose release.

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    What is the pituitary gland?

    The pituitary gland is often called the "master gland" because it controls the release of many hormones that regulate various bodily functions, including growth, metabolism, and stress response.

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    Study Notes

    Emotion

    • Emotions are psychological states with three key components:
      • Physiological arousal (e.g., sympathetic nervous system activity).
      • Behavioral reactions (e.g., facial expressions, fight-or-flight responses).
      • Subjective experiences or "feelings" (e.g., surprise, elation, sadness, anger, fear).

    Facial Expressions

    • Facial expressions play a vital role in social communication.
    • Key emotions have universally recognized facial expressions (e.g., Anger, Fear, Disgust, Surprise, Happiness, and Sadness) identified by Paul Ekman.
    • Research on the Fore People (Papua, New Guinea) demonstrated that these expressions appear universally understood across cultures.
    • Babies' facial expressions align with these 'basic' emotions, further supporting their innate nature.

    The Amygdala and Fear

    • The amygdala is crucial in processing fear.
    • A threat triggers both:
      • A fast, unconscious "low road" pathway (thalamus → amygdala).
      • A slower, conscious "high road" pathway (thalamus → sensory cortex → prefrontal cortex → amygdala).
    • Activation of the amygdala can trigger immediate, instinctive fear responses.
    • The prefrontal cortex plays a role in regulating emotions like fear.
    • It can either intensify or dampen amygdala activity and overall fear responses

    Stress

    • Stressors are events or conditions perceived as overwhelming, threatening, or harmful.
    • This triggers the body's stress response system.
    • Stressors vary in intensity and persistence.

    Types of Stressors

    • Catastrophic events (e.g., earthquakes, floods) are overwhelming, one-time events or chronic conditions.
    • Chronic daily difficulties (e.g., multiple tasks, insufficient time, low social support) create sustained stress.
    • Social status, where individuals feel subordinated can cause prolonged stress.

    The Stress Response

    • The physiological stress response prepares the body for "fight or flight."
    • The sympathetic nervous system becomes active, prompting the adrenal gland to release adrenaline and cortisol.
    • Adrenaline and cortisol increase glucose, impacting cardiovascular output and respiratory function, and promote focused attention.

    Cortisol & the HPA Axis

    • Stress initiates the release of cortisol through the HPA axis (Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal axis).
    • The Hypothalamus signals the release of ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone).
    • This hormone triggers cortisol release in the adrenal gland.

    Chronic Stress and Health

    • Chronic stress has various negative impacts on health.
    • Examples include: high blood pressure, ulcers, immune system suppression, accelerated aging, and brain damage.
    • Chronic stress affects parts of the brain like the hippocampus (impacting memory, learning) and brain dopamine levels.
    • Increased stress leads to shorter telomeres (protective caps of chromosomes), accelerating aging.

    Coping with Stress

    • Coping mechanisms can be either problem-focused (tackling the stressor directly) or emotion-focused (managing the emotional impact).

    Appraisal

    • Appraisal involves evaluating a stressor as either a threat or a challenge, thus impacting the emotional responses.
    • Choosing a positive appraisal style reduces stress responses by de-activating the amygdala and increasing prefrontal cortex activity.

    Social Support and Stress

    • Strong social connections, even from pets, have shown positive links to stress management, health improvement, and immune functioning.
    • Laughter can be a form of social support.
    • Social support has the effect of reducing stress hormones and may improve the expression of telomerase (which repairs telomeres).

    Aerobic Exercise and Stress

    • Aerobic exercise, or sustained physical activity increasing heart rate and oxygen use, has shown benefits in reducing stress.
    • Aerobic exercise boosts gene expression linked to disease prevention.

    Meditation and Stress

    • Mindfulness meditation focuses entirely on the present moment to manage stress and emotions without judgment.
    • It has shown to increase awareness of negative thoughts, decrease stress trigger responses, and promote compassion.

    Health and Well-Being

    • Psychological well-being and physical health are connected.
    • Strategies to manage stress can improve quality of life and longevity.

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    Description

    This quiz explores the relationship between chronic stress and various health factors, including telomerase levels, dopamine binding, and coping strategies. Delve into the physiological effects of stress on the body and understand how social support impacts mental health. Assess your knowledge on these critical intersections of stress and well-being.

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