Law school stress can kill brain cells

Law school students could be losing some of their cognitive abilities as a result of stress caused through an overly sedentary lifestyle and a lack of exercise while studying hard.

Law school students could be losing cognitive abilities as a result of stress. alphaspirit

This is a conclusion reached by law professor Debra Austin of the University of Denver, writing in the Loyola Law Review. ‘Stress can weaken or kill brain cells needed for cognition,’ she writes. Looking at the role of educators, she continues: ‘Professors who do not understand the neuroscience of cognitive wellness may unwittingly be causing their own disappointment in student performance by conducting classes under stressful conditions or supporting policies that engender stress-saturated law school cultures.’ 

Exercise

But students who take exercise and who keep at a minimum ‘less healthful’ activities such as Happy Hour and TV can get to a much better state where they can ‘optimise cognitive performance’, she also concludes. Source: ABA

 

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