Mindset Changes and Neuroplasticity

We live in an anxiety-inducing time, there is no denying. From social media posts to schoolwork and the food we eat, to the clothes we wear, it seems like there's an issue with everything! To be sure, there are issues, but oftentimes these smaller uncontrollable things can pile up and become bigger concerns than need be. These built-up concerns can really get in the way of day-to-day function, especially when trying to confront more important things such as school or work. Luckily, science says there are a few ways to help yourself!

Have you ever heard of neuroplasticity? If you haven’t, put into simple terms, neuroplasticity is our brain’s ability to change, restructure, and develop new “habits” or neural pathways. Neuroplasticity comes as a response to lived experiences such as injury, strong emotion, or instances of learning. The human brain has a remarkable capacity for training (especially when we are younger), and because of this, we as individuals can use that potential to change ourselves. Many people tend to believe that our thoughts and feelings force us to think about them and react in certain ways; however, the opposite is actually true. Instead, intentionally choosing your reactions to unpleasant circumstances can train your thoughts and feelings to associate displeasure with resilience and strength. While this may not work every single time, and will certainly be difficult, repetitive action and thoughts can essentially become easy habits due to our brain’s neural adjustments and the abandonment of dead neural pathways.

So where can we start? Of course, thinking about something other than all of our problems is hard. However, recognizing those problems is actually what helps us develop interventions. Acknowledging the parts of your life that cause you the most acute stress and repeatedly saying “I need to do something about this” is the beginning of a mental change. From there, figure out how you want to respond internally to those stressors. For example, if the weekly quiz for one of your classes causes your heart to beat faster and your mind to race, start responding to those symptoms with deep mindful breathing and positive affirmation (This quiz will be okay). It might feel silly, but deep breathing can lower your heart rate, and affirming yourself will keep your brain focused on a positive thought rather than the racing thoughts. Figuring out what to do in response to each stressor is the hardest part, but once you know what works for you, using it gets way easier.

I hope this blog post finds you well and can help you overcome any mental barriers you might be encountering day-to-day. While there is no sure-fire way to fix all the problems in the world, starting with the smaller irritating things in your life and working upwards is a fantastic method for improving personal outcomes. Enjoy your day, and remember to think differently!

Disclaimer: If you feel that anxious or upset to a degree that may align with symptoms of Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Depression, or another mental illness, please seek the aid of a qualified professional. While mindset changes are a useful intervention on a small scale, they are not your only option, and you may find professional intervention/advice to be more beneficial.