In its essence, we see stress as informational overload, meaning we receive more information per unit of time than we can process either because there is too much information (sensory overload) or because we spend too much time processing it (cognitive overload). Stress is not only caused by external factors, but is also triggered by internal problems (e.g. hunger), or replaying a traumatic experience in a search for better ways to prevent it from repeating, as in PTSD. Informational overload might also happen when the processing power of the brain is diminished due to sleep deprivation, exhaustion, or the influence of depressants such as alcohol.

When people are overwhelmed by stress, their brains may revert to simpler, more primitive ways of thinking. Finding the best depression treatment for you can help address these mental shifts and provide coping strategies. This process, known as regression, causes individuals to ignore more incoming information and see things in black-and-white terms, leading to impulsive decisions, overreactions, and aggressive behavior. For example, in social situations, someone under stress might view challenges as direct threats, leading to heightened defensiveness or hostility. This shift to a “fight-or-flight” mentality can make maintaining healthy relationships or navigating complex situations difficult. When people experience stress for extended periods, this black-and-white thinking can become a regular pattern, making them feel stuck or emotionally limited.

Fortunately, with the right stress management techniques and therapy, these effects can be reversed. Therapy helps individuals regain a more balanced perspective, allowing them to manage stress more healthily, improve their emotional range, and build resilience against future challenges.