Stress Psychology: Physiological methods of Stress Management Flashcards
Name the two types of drugs used for Stress Managements
> Benzodiazepines
> Beta-Blockers
What do BZs do?
Benzodiazepines, increase the activity and production of GABA by binding on to special sites on the GABA. This allows more chloride ions to flow better into he neurons and increase the resistance to excitation. As a result this helps a person feel calmer.
What do Beta-Blockers do?
BBs reduce the effect of Noradrenaline and Adrenaline by binding to receptors on the cells of the heart and other organs which are affected by the arousal. By blocking the receptors it is harder to stimulate the cells, for example, in the heart and will reduce blood pressure, heart rate and any stress on the heart. The person will then feel calmer and less anxious.
Name the Strengths of Drugs
> Benzodiazepines have been found to be very effective in combating stress, Kahn found that Benzodiazepines more effective than the placebos given.
Beta-Blockers are effective in reducing anxiety in a variety of stressful situations.
They are very simple and easy to administer they require no effort from the patients.
Name the Weaknesses of Drugs
> BZs in particular have a major flaw, they have been found to highly addictive and even in small doses ppts would show signs of withdrawal symptoms.
BZs showed harmful side effects such as increased aggressiveness and impairment of memory.
Studies have shown BBs to have been linked with an increased risk of developmental diabetes
The drugs in general only treat the symptoms of stress, but they do not solve the problem.
Name the Weaknesses of Drugs
> BZs in particular have a major flaw, they have been found to highly addictive and even in small doses ppts would show signs of withdrawal symptoms.
Side effects of BZs include increased aggressiveness and impairment of memory.
BBs have been linked to increased risk of developmental diabetes
Drugs may be effective at treating the various symptoms but it does not solve the problem.
