Fight, flight or freeze? Evolutionarily speaking, the chemical and physiological processes associated with stress have been beneficial to the survival of our species. And even today, stress still has its benefits. However, excessive stress also leads to problems. From mood and anxiety disorders to unhealthy habits and addiction. In his inaugural lecture on 4 November, Professor of Clinical Psychology Tom Smeets will discuss the role of stress in the development and maintenance of psychological complaints and the possibilities offered by digital mental health care and self-care technology to anticipate complaints or prevent relapse. This is reported by Tilburg University.
Smeets and colleagues are using experimental lab research and data obtained via the experience sampling method to map the dynamics of stress within people. With this multitude of data, it is hoped to be able to determine in individual patients how these stress dynamics relate to the onset, maintenance, or recurrence of psychological complaints or deviant behaviour. With the help of smartphones, activity trackers and other wearables, for example, these insights help patients and practitioners to be aware of early warning signs, so that timely action can be taken and a relapse can be prevented.
Mapping predictors of psychological complaints
Specifically, Tom Smeets’ research will focus on offering interventions to provide help at exactly the right time and in the right context. For example, an online intervention is being developed that teaches people to deal with stress in a more positive way. In the coming years, Smeets will focus on various interdisciplinary research projects on stress dynamics and psychological care in their own living environment through e-health interventions. By mapping predictors of psychological complaints, existing complaints can be reduced and positive behavioral change can be achieved.
By: National Care Guide