How does our mind manage change?

From a high level view the manner in which organisms regulate function is influenced by the hypothalamus and, based upon the system, either the brainstem controls the system and sends autonomic messages or the endocrine controls the system and sends messages to the appropriate organ, system, or reflex (Lovallo, 2004). This regulation theory is based upon the theory proposed by Cannon (1935) as cited by Lovallo (2004) in which the theory of homeostatis is required by the human body. The theory suggests that variation from a set point triggers a variety of complex responses that result in organs, through the brainstem systems and the endocrine systems, involuntarily try to return to the stable, or set-point of operation (Brannon & Feist, 2004).

The sympathetic nervous system plays a great role in managing functions associated with environmental changes, which are often stressors (Lovallo, 2004). In this system the nerves interact with the postganglionic fibers and also influence the genetailia, large intestine, digestive system and bladder (Lovallo, 2004). The sympathetic nervous system is in charge of preparing the body for emergencies and it can function autonomously regardless of a person’s consciousness or their intellectually functioning (Pohjavaara, Telaranta, & Väisänen, 2003).

When there is an environmental change this system is able to regulate its functions because there is so much sympathy, or synchronicity, between the organs and the sympathetic nervous system. When stress occurs in the sympathetic system adjustments, such as managing flight-or-flight responses are put in place so that the body can respond to an environmental change; yet equally this system releases sweat and increases the activation of the vital functioning organs such as cardiac muscles in a state of environmental change to help us maintain our homeostasis (Lovallo, 2004). However, there are instances in which the system can be overloaded and anxiety disorders or panic attacks that may be the uncontrollable result that the sympathetic system, in conjunction with the parasympathetic system, because of environmental changes that cause a “flight or fight” response (Pohjavaara, Telaranta, & Väisänen, 2003).

Brannon, L. & Feist, J. (2004). Health psychology: An introduction to behavior and health (5th Ed.). CA: Wadsworth/Thomson Learning.

Lovallo, W. (2004). Stress & Health: Biological and Psychological Interactions. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications

Pohjavaara, P, Telaranta, & T, Väisänen, E. (2003). The role of the sympathetic nervous system in anxiety: Is it possible to relieve anxiety with endoscopic sympathetic block? Nordic Journal of Psychiatry, 57(1), 55-60