"When our brains perceive a threat, they may trigger the release of chemicals that cause rapid physiological changes, like increased heart rate and changes in our vision and hearing. The trade-off of these reactions is that when our brains prioritize safety, they deprioritize use of the prefrontal cortex, where executive function and problem-solving mainly take place."
"Students can attest to the very real experience of having their brains freeze when feeling stressed or unsafe. They've studied thoroughly, can recall the information, then stress gets its tentacles wrapped around their brains, and poof! The thoughts are gone."
Stress triggers a survival response in the brain, prioritizing safety over executive function. This leads to physiological changes that impair problem-solving abilities. When under stress, individuals may experience a mental freeze, making it challenging to access learned information or execute tasks effectively. Environments that promote self-regulation can enhance executive function, allowing for better problem-solving even in stressful situations. Taking short breaks to calm oneself can help regain access to cognitive resources necessary for effective thinking.
Read at Psychology Today
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