Unlock the Surprising Benefits of Stress: How It Can Supercharge Your Brain and Boost Your Immunity

We often hear that stress is bad for our health and that we should manage it as much as possible. However, Dr. Richard Shelton, a professor of psychiatry at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, explains that being stressed is not always bad. When our bodies have a ‘fight or flight response’, rather than doing harm, they start positive actions to protect us. Based on Dr. Shelton’s contribution to the American health media outlet Health, we have summarized the positive aspects of stress.

Is there such a thing as positive stress?

Positive stress exists. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), positive stress, called ‘eustress’, occurs in situations that are enjoyable but challenging. Activities that can cause eustress include: preparing for retirement, welcoming a new family, changing jobs, and participating in sports competitions.

Eustress comes from anticipation of an exciting situation, but surprisingly, negative stress, called ‘distress’, can also have positive effects on the body and mind.

Improved brain function = Moderate levels of stress produce chemicals in the brain called neurotrophins, which strengthen connections between neurons. This may be the main mechanism by which physical stress helps increase productivity and focus, Dr. Shelton explained.

A study published in 2017 found that stress can help improve short-term memory in certain situations, such as when you’re about to take an exam.

Short-term immune boosting= When we are stressed, our immune system is boosted to protect us from possible injury or infection. Our bodies produce additional interleukins, chemicals that regulate the immune system, temporarily boosting our defenses, Dr. Shelton explained. Some research suggests that experiencing short-term stress, in particular, can provide immune-based protection in the event of injury or infection.

Stronger resilience = Learning how to cope with and overcome stressful situations will make it easier to manage similar situations in the future. This is a fundamental principle of SEAL training, Dr. Shelton emphasized. Of course, you can deal with stress and build resilience in everyday life, even if it is not extreme training.

SEALs train themselves to control themselves physically and psychologically by exposing themselves to repeated stressful situations, so they can respond without breaking down in actual combat situations, Dr. Shelton added.

Motivation for success = Stress can provide the impetus needed to complete tasks at work. Dr. Shelton explains that a good example is thinking about a deadline. When a deadline approaches, we try to manage our time and current situation more effectively. This is the same principle that leads us to think of various efficient ways to increase productivity. The key is to view stressful situations as challenges that can be overcome, rather than as overwhelming obstacles.

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