Based on the provided case study, predict the primary physiological changes that would occur if the individual successfully induced a state of deep rest. Explain the underlying mechanism for these changes.

Physiological Effects of Deep Rest

Based on the scenario provided, explain the physiological state of the individual and recommend a specific, immediate action they could take to counteract it. Justify your recommendation by describing the expected physiological changes.

Managing Acute Stress Response

The relaxation response is a state of decreased sympathetic nervous system activity that opposes the toxic stress response. Physiologic effects of the relaxation response include a reduction in respirations, heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen consumption. The relaxation response has been effective as a tool for situations in which excessive sympathetic activity prevails, such as would be considered in exposure to toxic stress. 

University of Illinois at Chicago

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The toxic stress response affects the neuroendocrine-immune network, and that response leads to a prolonged and abnormal cortisol response. The resultant immune dysregulation increases the risk of infections in children. The toxic stress response is believed to play a role in the pathophysiology of depressive disorders, behavioral dysregulation, PTSD, and psychosis. 

Toxic Stress Response

Franke, H. A. (2014). Toxic stress: effects, prevention and treatment. Children, 1(3), 390-402.

Toxic stress: effects, prevention and treatment

Spielman, R. M., Jenkins, W. J., & Lovett, M. D. (2020, April 22). Psychology (2nd ed.). OpenStax. https://openstax.org/books/psychology-2e/pages/1-introduction

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