As a trauma therapist, Dr Kat Aguilera has seen firsthand the profound impact that chronic stress can have on individuals. Within our trauma therapy, the 5P’s framework, developed by psychologist Dr. Jacqueline Adshead, is a frequently used and valuable tool. This model emphasises assessing five key areas to understand a person’s experience of stress: Presenting, Precipitating, Predisposing, Perpetuating, and Protective factors. Here, we’ve explored how each of these factors contributes to chronic stress and how you can manage it more effectively.
1. Presenting Factors: Recognising the Warning Signs
Chronic stress often manifests through immediate and noticeable symptoms. These “presenting factors” are the first clues that something’s wrong. Common signs include anxiety, fatigue, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and even increased alcohol use. While these symptoms may not be initially linked to stress, recognising them early is crucial, as they can significantly impact daily life.
Identifying presenting factors is the first step towards addressing chronic stress. By acknowledging these symptoms, you can take proactive steps to manage your stress levels. It’s then helpful to explore whether a specific event might be linked to these symptoms, which brings us to the next section: precipitating factors.
2. Precipitating Factors: Identifying Your Triggers
Precipitating factors are the events or situations that trigger or worsen chronic stress. These can include significant life changes, job stress, or a sudden, overwhelming event. These are the acute or (more often) cumulative events that have led to your current state. We explore any specific stressors or events to understand the trajectory to the presenting symptoms, and also look at your history for any underlying reasons. Identifying these triggers is crucial in understanding the root causes of your stress.
Recognising your stress triggers empowers you to develop strategies to minimise their impact. It’s about understanding the “why” behind your stress and taking steps to manage these triggers effectively.
3. Predisposing Factors: Uncovering Underlying Vulnerabilities
Predisposing factors are the underlying vulnerabilities that increase your likelihood of developing chronic stress. These can include genetic predispositions and early childhood experiences. Hidden within your history may lie the links between your current symptoms and past experiences. For example, individuals who’ve experienced chronic stress over a long period, such as childhood trauma, may have nervous systems adjusted to high cortisol levels, making them more vulnerable to stress-related issues later in life.
By uncovering these underlying vulnerabilities, you can gain a deeper understanding of your stress responses and work towards building resilience.
4. Perpetuating Factors: Breaking the Cycle of Stress
Perpetuating factors are the behaviours, thoughts, and environmental conditions that maintain chronic stress. These can include avoidance behaviours, negative thinking patterns, and unsupportive environments. Here, we explore the factors in your environment that may be maintaining the cycle of stress and how we might address them to break free. Addressing aspects like sleep, nutrition, and physical activity can help develop a more resilient foundation.
Understanding perpetuating factors empowers you to take control and implement effective interventions to break free from the grip of chronic stress.
5. Protective Factors: Building Resilience Against Stress
Protective factors are the elements that help mitigate or buffer against chronic stress. These include strong social support networks, healthy coping mechanisms, and a positive mindset – all crucial for building resilience against the other areas we’ve explored. The aim here is to develop insight into your well-being and healthy coping mechanisms to prevent symptoms from escalating. In my experience, this is the key area that helps people understand themselves and what they need to maintain long-term well-being.
By focusing on protective factors, you can build resilience and enhance your ability to cope with stress. It’s about creating a supportive environment and adopting practices that promote mental wellbeing.
Speak to our Trauma Psychologist
Understanding chronic stress through the lens of the 5P’s provides a comprehensive framework for managing and overcoming it. Each factor plays a vital role in the complex interplay of stress, and addressing them holistically can lead to significant improvements in mental health and well-being.
Dr. Kat Aguilera, our trauma psychologist here at Aguilera Psychology, can help you navigate chronic stress and develop personalised strategies to build resilience. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how therapy can empower you to thrive.