Stress, a risk factor for psychosis

Although we do not know with certainty the mechanisms involved in the appearance and evolution of psychosis, we know that there are several risk factors that influence its development. In the genetic field, a vulnerability to having a disorder is inherited, and, with the interaction of different environmental factors, a disease such as psychosis may or may not develop. Some of these risk factors are obstetric and perinatal complications, traumatic experiences in childhood, situations of social adversity, stress and substance use. In summary, we can say that the contribution and interaction of different biological and environmental factors can help explain the origin and evolution of psychosis.

Vulnerability and stress are determined in the first years of life , since this is when many more risk factors can occur, such as obstetric and perinatal complications, nutrition and traumatic experiences in childhood. In addition, at this time the brain is in full development and is more sensitive to changes, and this can produce emotional and cognitive alterations in the person.

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In adolescence and adulthood, it is common to experience different stressful life events , which directly or indirectly, and subjectively or objectively, affect and challenge us, disrupting our daily activities and altering our compensatory strategies. These events can be positive or negative, and their perception will depend on the moment and each person. It is important to note that even those events that we value as positive can also generate a lot of stress. Some examples of stressful situations can be the final stretch of exams, the separation of mother and father, a divorce, the death of a loved one, etc. But some situations that are positive for us can also generate stress , such as starting a new job, starting a romantic relationship or pregnancy. These stressful life events are considered one of the most important factors in the onset of psychosis.

All of these risk factors are very relevant, but so is the individual's interpretation and ability to deal with these situations and recover from them.

Not feeling prepared to face certain situations does not mean that we do not have the skills to do so or that we are incompetent. In fact, the same situation, at certain times in your life, does not generate stress for us and we can resolve it very well and, on the other hand, at other times it will overcome us and we will need help. Therefore, sometimes it is simply the moment in which we find ourselves that will make us feel prepared or not to resolve a certain situation.

Stress warning signs

High stress, over a long period of time (chronic) can generate changes in our body that can affect us both physically and mentally. This is where a whole series of symptoms can appear, which can range from anxiety and depression, to the presence of psychotic symptoms. Therefore, it is important to know how to detect and manage stress effectively.

Warning symptoms of stress that is starting to be harmful to our physical and mental health:

• Changes in appetite
• Weight on the chest
• Muscle tension
• Headache
• Stomach upset
• Back, neck and shoulder pain
• Difficulty sleeping
• Difficulty concentrating
• Irritability
• Fatigue

What can you do to reduce stress?

• Exercise. Being physically active is good for our bodies and minds. It is recommended to do 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity per week.
• Take care of your diet . Try to choose healthier food options, if you can.
• Become aware of yourself and the world around you . Be aware of your breathing, your body, and your surroundings. Relaxation activities, such as yoga or mindfulness, can be good options.
• Try to have a regular sleep rhythm. A good rest is necessary for our body and our thoughts. For adults, it is recommended to sleep between 7 and 9 hours, and between 8 and 10 hours for adolescents.
• Do enjoyable activities. Find activities that make you feel happy and put you in a good mood. Maybe it's even time to try new things!
• Surround yourself with your people . Staying in touch and spending time with family and friends is a great way to improve your mood and reduce stress.
• Ask for help . On certain occasions, when we find ourselves overwhelmed, it is important to know how to ask for help. Sharing your experience with health professionals, in addition to accompanying you in this process, will give you tools to better manage stress and the situations you find yourself in.

There are many people who experience stressful situations, you are not alone. It is also important to highlight that, although we feel prepared to face certain situations, it does not mean that we have to do it alone. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness!