What is Neuroplasticity & how can it impact Mental Health?
Neuroplasticity & Mental Health
Neuroplasticity
Before the ‘60’s, the brain was thought to be hardwired in its ways, fixed and incapable of change. This led to the belief that your brain cannot change in adulthood (hence the old saying- you can't teach an old dog new tricks). It wasn’t until the ‘90s when our paradigm shifted, and when neuroplasticity was introduced. Neuroplasticity is a lifelong process. It is our brain's intrinsic and dynamic ability to continuously alter its structure and function throughout our lifetime. There are 4 parts to neuroplasticity:
1) Neurogenesis: a continuous generation of new neurons in certain brain regions
2) New synapses: new skills and experiences that create new neural connections
3) Strengthened synapses: repetition and practice strengthens neural connections
4) Weakened synapses: connections in the brain that aren't used and become weak.
So how does Neuroplasticity relate to Mental Health?
Neuroplasticity happens every moment of every day & relies on repetition of behavior whether it is positive or negative. Neuroplasticity relies on experience. When we engage in experiences that provide sensory, emotional and intellectual arousal and design a life that challenges us, we build neural connections that push us into high performance.
When one has lived with mental illness, your negative thought patterns become engraved. For example, those with chronic anxiety disorders might assume they will always be concerned and worried. Those with depression might not see the possibility in consistent happiness or contentment. Survivors of trauma might believe they have to be on-edge for the rest of their life. When one continues to feed these negative thought patterns, they strengthen over time.
While the study of neuroplasticity is still gaining traction, the concept offers optimism. Science shows throughout our lifespan we can indeed create stronger positive neural pathways with practice and over time. Understanding & knowing this to be true can be life-changing!
If the idea of practicing over time to change our brain cells seems daunting, think of taking the smallest of steps. Each time you catch yourself saying out loud or in your mind something negative...consider replacing it with a positive statement even if it is hard to believe in the moment. When you are stressed, anxious or upset...pay attention to the shallowness of your breath and choose to take a deep inhale instead. The practice will be challenging and difficult for some as maybe our pathways of confidence, security and self-love are currently weak. Changing your brain may not be easy, but it is worth the effort. What small steps can you take today?