MA (Psychology) PhD (Psychology)
There are two aspects of neuronal changes in the brain resulting from the exposure to protracted and intense stress: some areas of the brain are prone to neuron losses, but some other areas actually develop new neuronal connections. This process is called by Sapolsky neuronal "plasiticity". The stress-related plasticity in the limbic system of the brain has been clearly demonstrated by large volume of recent research.
Protracted stress damages the neurones in the hyppocampal part of the brain, which is responsible for learning processes. This explains why people affected by Stress Breakdown or Reactive Depression have sometimes enormous problems with their memory. These problems appear in such typical symptoms as inability to remember the everyday tasks, inability to plan, inability to learn new materials, difficulties with organizing work and household activities, etc.
To learn more about the basic functions of the limbic system, click on the Mind-Brain link window below.
Another aspect of neuronal changes in the brain resulting from protracted stress is related to an increase of neuronal connections in the corpus amygdala. The result of such enhancement of the amygdala functions is known as an increase of processing any information related to fear and anxiety. In terms of symptoms, it is demonstrated by increased fear reactivity of affected individuals, their greater sensitivity to anxiety-producing social situations, and the presence of free-floating anxiety.