From one of the world's most respected neuroscientists, an eye-opening study of why we react to pressure in the way we do and how to be energized rather than defeated by stress.

Why is it that some people react to seemingly trivial emotional upsets--like failing an unimportant exam or tackling a difficult project at work--with distress, while others power through life-changing tragedies showing barely any emotional upset whatsoever? How do some people shine brilliantly at public speaking while others stumble with their words and seem on the verge of an anxiety attack? Why do some people sink into all-consuming depression when life has dealt them a poor hand, while inothers it merely increases their resilience?

The difference between too much pressure and too little can result in either debilitating stress or lack of motivation in extreme situations. However, the right level of challenge and stress can help people flourish and achieve more than they ever thought possible.

In THE STRESS TEST, clinical psychologist and cognitive neuroscientist Ian Robertson, armed with over four decades of research, reveals how we can shape our brain's response to pressure and how stress actually can be a good thing. THE STRESS TEST is a revelatory study of how and why we react to pressure as we do, and how we can change our response to stress to our benefit.

Ian Robertson's profile page

Ian Robertsonis an expert on neuropsychology and a trained clinical psychologist. He is the T. Boone Pickens Distinguished Research Professor at the University of Texas in Dallas, and holds a visiting professorship at the University of Toronto. Robertson is the author and editor of ten scientific books and three books for the general reader, most recentlyTHE WINNER EFFECT. He is a keynote speaker at conferences on brain function throughout the world. He lives in Dublin, Ireland.

"Robertson’s enlightening theories on brain chemistry make fascinating food for thought and will help readers see the upside of stress." -Publishers Weekly

"Fascinating . . . Filled with case studies and thoughtful commentary, this eye-opening book is sure to inspire thoughts on the effects of stress and the importance of facing life head-on." -Booklist Online

"An intriguing overview of important developments in brain research, specifically as it relates to finding 'the right mental balance we need for each challenge that faces us.'" -Kirkus Reviews

"You can change, and here’s the proof. This compelling examination of a scientific revolution helps us understand how we can learn to harness stress." - Oliver James

"A cutting edge neuroscientist whose important research is done in great depth . . . who also has the ability to step back and explore the big picture." - Norman Doidge, author of THE BRAIN THAT CHANGES ITSELF

"An engaging tour of psychology, brain science, and personal narrative that reveals how sometimes stress can make us stronger." - Elaine Fox, author of RAINY BRAIN, SUNNY BRAIN

"Being in great mental and physical health gets more and more important for me every day . . . The idea that stress, properly managed, can be helpful intrigues me. Dr. Robertson has the clinical expertise and research experience that helps point the way." - T. Boone Pickens