Stress is not a psychological problem – it is a profound biological reaction that, when chronically activated, damages the entire organ system. Prof. Dr. Jörg Spitz explains the difference between the evolutionarily sensible acute stress (that saves us in dangerous situations) and the disease-causing chronic stress of modern performance society.
The stress response is a complex neuroendocrine cascade: upon perceived threat, the adrenal gland releases adrenaline and cortisol, the heart rate accelerates, energy reserves are mobilised, and the immune system is temporarily dampened. Evolutionarily this was perfect – for brief fights or flight. Permanently activated, the same system acts like poison.
Psychoneuroimmunology – a research field particularly close to Spitz's heart – demonstrates the interactions between thoughts, emotions, nervous system, and immune defence. Chronic stress increases the risk of heart disease, autoimmune diseases, depression, infections, and even cancer. Positive emotions, compassion, gratitude, and mindfulness, conversely, measurably strengthen immune function.
Social bonds are the strongest known buffer against stress. People with close, trusting relationships live longer, become ill less often, and recover more quickly from diseases. Prof. Dr. Spitz emphasises: loneliness is a health risk of similar magnitude to smoking – a dramatically underestimated factor in modern society.
Among the most effective stress reduction strategies are regular physical movement (reducing cortisol), mindfulness meditation (demonstrably neuroplastic effect on the prefrontal cortex), deep breathing and heart rate variability training, as well as sufficient sleep and time in nature. Prof. Dr. Spitz integrates these strategies into his holistic prevention model.