Rewiring the stress response: A new paradigm for health care

Abstract

In describing the conceptual basis of a stress intervention method, Emotional Brain Training (EBT), a program which integrates advances in neuroscience and stress physiology, we propose a new paradigm for health care. Many health care treatments focus on managing symptoms of stressrelated disorders. In modern society stress is primarily psychological in nature and in its chronic form, the result of allostatic (non-homeostatic) neural circuits that amplify and prolong stress. The result is cognitive, emotional, behavioral and physiologic dysregulation resulting in wear and tear (allostatic load). The effectiveness of treating any one stress symptom is likely decreased because of the persistent allostatic state. Emerging understanding of neuroplasticity suggests that this circuitry is capable of change. EBT is based on the repeated use of techniques that mirror secure attachment and optimal self-regulatory processing to alter allostatic circuits through the process of reconsolidation, therefore decreasing allostatic load. This results in an improved state of well-being. We hypothesize that decreased dominance of allostatic neuronal circuits leads to improved health outcomes, offering a new paradigm for health care. 1