Every day presents us with a million little choices; choices that we may put little thought into, like what to eat for breakfast, or choices that we labour over, like what post-secondary school programs we should apply to. No matter the scenario, making decisions can be helped or hindered by the mind frame we find ourselves in when faced with these choices. One factor that can greatly influence our ability to make a balanced decision is our level of stress.
Stress has many effects on our body. It can cause exhaustion, difficulty concentrating, muscle fatigue, headaches, shortness of breath, high blood pressure, mood disorders, and a depleted immune system.¹ Stress also affects our brain! Stress can cause anxiety, insomnia, decrease our ability to focus, and inhibit decision making.²
Studies have shown that when someone is under stress, they make decisions based on a “habit mindset” instead of taking the time to analyse the distinct factors of their current situation. This means the individual will just do what they did last time, even if it doesn’t correctly match the current situation. When the brain is under stress, even every day decisions can be difficult. Stress decreases the oxygen and blood flow to the brain which decreases our mental function. Because of this, the brain is unable to access the information it needs to make a logical decision.³
This is where Mea Centre can help. It can be very stressful when you find yourself experiencing an unexpected pregnancy. There is so much information to take in, and big decisions to be made. The pressure to decide quickly can sometimes force a habit-based decision, which may not take into account the uniqueness of your particular experience.
There are practical ways to manage stress, such as improving sleep, maintaining a healthy diet, getting regular physical activity, and avoiding smoking. However, another great way to decrease stress to help with decision making is through social support that promotes a positive outlook on life.²
At Mea Centre, we provide a caring environment to help support your decision-making process. We take the time to listen to your unique circumstances and provide some tools and information to help you make the decision that is best for you. We aim to provide a safe, pressure-free environment where you can take the time to process your unexpected pregnancy and come to a decision that is less influenced by stressors or habits. Through supportive conversation and information, we are here to help as you decide what the right choice is for you, personally.
If you find yourself struggling with the stress of an unexpected pregnancy, Mea Centre is here for you! You can book an appointment HERE with one of our support personnel. They would be happy to be the social support that can help you navigate decision making under stress. You don’t have to manage the stress alone or allow the stress to make a decision for you. There is support for you here, at Mea Centre.
By: Carling, RN ~ Prenatal Educator
References:
1. Shaw, William, et al. “Stress Effects on the Body.” American Psychological Association, 8 Mar. 2023, www.apa.org/topics/stress/body.
2. McEwen B. S. (2017). Neurobiological and Systemic Effects of Chronic Stress. Chronic stress (Thousand Oaks, Calif.), 1, 2470547017692328. https://doi.org/10.1177/2470547017692328
3. Walden University. “How Stress Impacts Decision Making.” https://www.waldenu.edu/online-masters-programs/ms-in-clinical-mental-he.... Accessed on May 24, 2023.