Module #1 Introduction to Stress Defining stress, its impact on daily life, and the importance of understanding the neuroscience behind it
Module #2 The Biology of Stress Overview of the biological response to stress, including the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and the sympathetic nervous system
Module #3 The Stress Response:Fight or Flight In-depth exploration of the autonomic nervous systems response to stress, including the release of hormones like adrenaline and cortisol
Module #4 Chronic Stress and Its Consequences The negative impact of prolonged stress on physical and mental health, including anxiety, depression, and immune system suppression
Module #5 The Neuroscience of Emotions Understanding the neural basis of emotions, including the role of the amygdala, prefrontal cortex, and dopamine
Module #6 Stress and Emotional Regulation How stress affects emotional regulation, including the impact on emotional reactivity and resilience
Module #7 The Gut-Brain Axis and Stress The bidirectional relationship between the gut microbiome and the brain, and its role in stress modulation
Module #8 Sleep and Stress The critical role of sleep in stress regulation, and the consequences of sleep disturbances on stress levels
Module #9 Exercise and Stress Reduction The science behind exercise as a stress-reducing activity, including the role of endorphins and dopamine
Module #10 Mindfulness and Meditation for Stress Relief The neural mechanisms behind mindfulness and meditation, and their effectiveness in reducing stress
Module #11 Stress and Cognitive Function The impact of stress on cognitive performance, including attention, memory, and decision-making
Module #12 Stress and Memory Formation The effects of stress on memory consolidation and retrieval, including the role of the hippocampus
Module #13 Neuroplasticity and Stress The ability of the brain to adapt and change in response to stress, and the implications for stress resilience
Module #14 Trauma, PTSD, and Stress The complex relationship between trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and stress, including the role of the amygdala and hippocampus
Module #15 Social Support and Stress The importance of social connections in stress regulation, including the role of oxytocin and vasopressin
Module #16 Nutrition and Stress The impact of diet on stress levels, including the role of omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and probiotics
Module #17 Stress and the Immune System The complex relationship between stress and the immune system, including the role of cytokines and inflammation
Module #18 Stress and Hormonal Balance The impact of stress on hormonal balance, including the effects on cortisol, insulin, and thyroid hormones
Module #19 Stress and Cardiovascular Health The relationship between stress and cardiovascular disease, including the role of blood pressure and heart rate variability
Module #20 Stress and Mental Health Disorders The complex relationship between stress and mental health disorders, including anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder
Module #21 Stress and Aging The impact of stress on aging, including the role of telomeres, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial function
Module #22 Stress and Neurodegenerative Diseases The relationship between stress and neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimers, Parkinsons, and Huntingtons
Module #23 Stress Management Strategies Evidence-based strategies for managing stress, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and relaxation techniques
Module #24 Stress Resilience and Post-Traumatic Growth The concept of stress resilience, including the role of positive emotions, self-awareness, and purpose
Module #25 Course Wrap-Up & Conclusion Planning next steps in Neuroscience of Stress: An Introduction career
