Can we ‘vaccinate’ ourselves against stress?

image via New Scientist

April 20, 2026, 2:00 PM

• •Manageable stress exposure can build resilience.
• •Stressful situations remodel the brain.
• •Techniques like breathing exercises improve resilience.
• •Some research explores a literal stress vaccine.

Researchers are exploring ways to build resilience to stress, similar to how vaccines train the immune system. Exposure to manageable stressors can remodel the brain and make future challenges easier to handle. This approach, often studied in military personnel, involves simulations and support systems to minimize the impact of stress. Techniques like breathing exercises and mindfulness also contribute to building resilience and turning bad stress into good.

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