A recent article by Iltalehti discusses the adverse effects of long-term stress on brain health, citing research from Dr. Satu Pakarinen, a leading psychologist at the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health. The findings reveal that chronic stress alters the brain structure, resulting in the thinning of the frontal lobes while simultaneously increasing the size of the amygdala, which is responsible for the fight or flight response. This shows that the brains of individuals who have endured prolonged stress begin to resemble those of older adults in some aspects.

The article explains that while acute stress can be beneficial, keeping us alert and enabling quick responses, lengthy exposure to stress can have severe implications for cognitive functions such as memory and learning. The activation of the HPA axis—comprising the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and adrenal glands—manifests as a physiological response to stressful events, which can become harmful when this activation is prolonged. Consequently, understanding the effects of stress is crucial for mental health and overall functioning.

Lastly, the article raises important questions about recovery, examining whether the brain can return to its original state once the stressors are removed. While some recovery may occur, the long-term implications of stress necessitate a focus on mental well-being in workplaces to mitigate its damaging effects on employees' brain health.