The Tend and Befriend Response to Stress

Stress is a normal part of life, and rather than avoiding it, we can embrace it as a sign that we care. While the fight-or-flight response is well-known, there is also the tend and befriend response to stress. This response occurs when we feel the urge to connect and reach out to others in stressful situations. It is fueled by oxytocin, a bonding hormone, and it helps us build resilience and bounce back after difficult events. The tend and befriend response can be practiced by engaging in small acts of kindness for others, shifting our focus from our own worries to brightening someone else's day.