Page 25 - Course 3 Neurobiology Part 5 Getting Brain Fit
P. 25
Help children understand that not all stress is bad
GROWTH STRESS TOLERABLE STRESS TOXIC STRESS
▪ Temporary and only mild increase in ▪ Temporary serious stress causing stress ▪ Serious stress activating the body’s
stress hormone levels. hormones to be raised significantly in stress response.
▪ Temporary increase in heart rate. the body. ▪ Continuing over a period of time.
▪ Body’s stress levels return to normal ▪ Tolerable because buffered by ▪ Not enough protection from
following the event. supportive, caring adults & friends. connections to act as buffers.
▪ E.g. an interview; an exam; starting a ▪ E.g. death of a loved one; parental ▪ E.g. seeing ongoing violence; ongoing
new club; meeting new people; divorce; serious illness; an isolated abuse, bullying or discrimination;
moving to a new area; a challenging traumatic experience e.g. car crash. ongoing poverty-related stress.
project.
▪ Leads to resilience, confidence & ▪ Leads to adaptation & ▪ Leads to long-term mental &
good coping skills. recovery. physical health issues & Executive
Function Skill difficulties.
