There are two books that we continuously recommend in our introductory peer support / crisis training – and Dr. Sapolsky’s, “Why Zebras Don’t Get Ulcers” is one of them.

Our crisis supporters don’t need to be neuroscientists, but having a slight understanding (even if it’s at “Sesame Street” level) of “brain science” can be most helpful when working with people surviving a critical incident. After having read this book, I have a better understanding of the “fight-or-flight” response – and the physiological reactions of stress and distress.

We promote – and “preach” this book – during the “body in distress” section of our training. Ever get upset stomach during times of stress? That’s the digestive system shutting down. When reading this book, I learned that it takes massive amounts of energy to digest food. That energy is needed when running from (or fighting) a saber tooth tiger, so our body – without our “permission” – releases the contents of digestion and redirects that energy elsewhere.

I think “without our permission” was one of the most interesting – and eye-opening – concepts for me to grasp. Based on threats that we perceive, our brain is sending signals throughout our body – increasing some functions while decreasing others – all for the sole purpose to keep us alive. I have sat with many a soldier, officer, warrior and worker who simply needed and wanted to know why?! Why couldn’t they react one way? Why did they react another?

Dr. Sapolsky gives insight and understanding to stress and the stress response. Because of his work, I have rudimentarily drawn a brain – on a napkin or a white board – to capture and (in a Sesame Street way) explain the “why” your body and brain responded to a perceived threat.

We teach in class that knowledge is power and, sometimes, providing information and understanding as to “why” is exactly what one needs to ensure that their response to stress is normal and biologically beyond their control.

Robert Sapolsky YouTube Playlist

Dorie is a partner and co-founder of Crisis Support Solutions, LLC. Dorie counsels individuals and groups on various issues ranging from stress/trauma, depression/anxiety, relationship/family, grief/loss, victimization, etc. She trains coordinated and managed crisis intervention teams at multiple locations. Dorie has developed and taught courses in basic and advanced crisis intervention training programs. She is also a Compassion Fatigue Educator with the Academy of Traumatology.