Psychological flexibility linked to calm under pressure

Researchers from Binghamton University in the United States have identified a "common factor" among individuals who remain calm under pressure: psychological flexibility, which refers to the ability to adjust thoughts, emotions, and behaviors according to the situation. This flexibility allows individuals to manage stress more effectively, as opposed to rigid reactions such as rumination or catastrophic thinking.

Study analyzed student habits and stress

The study, published in the Journal of American College Health, analyzed the anonymous responses of 401 students, focusing on their stress levels, diet, sleep patterns, physical activity, psychological flexibility, and resilience. The researchers aimed to understand how daily habits might influence an individual’s ability to cope with stress.

Daily habits linked to flexibility

The researchers observed that certain daily habits are systematically associated with higher psychological flexibility and better resistance to stress. These habits include having breakfast at least five times a week, practicing daily physical activity of at least 20 minutes, sleeping more than six hours per night, and regularly consuming fish oil.

Lack of sleep and fast food linked to stress

Conversely, students who lacked sleep and often ate fast food had more difficulty adapting their thoughts and behaviors to unexpected situations. The study highlights these links but does not prove causation, as it remains observational and focuses only on students.

Breakfast stands out as key factor

Among all the factors studied, breakfast regularly stands out as a key element, with students who ate breakfast at least five times a week showing higher psychological flexibility. This finding suggests that simple daily routines may play a significant role in how individuals handle stress.