Definition: Stress is a state of mental or emotional strain or tension resulting from adverse or demanding circumstances.
Stress occurs when the brain releases chemicals which cause an increase in energy and strength. This can be helpful in physical situations but when the stress is emotional, this release of chemicals is detrimental because there is no outlet for this extra energy and strength. These chemicals are: adrenaline (the fight or flight hormone), cortisole, and norepinephrine (similar to adrenaline, with the main intent to cause awareness).
Stress can be a good motivator, but it can become harmful if it becomes excessive and begins to interfere with normal, everyday life.
There are three main types of stress. These are: acute stress, episodic acute stress, and chronic stress.
This occurs when people have to deal with acute stress repeatedly. This often occurs when a traumatic event happens and is followed by more stress inducing events. These people have the tendency to believe that, if something can go wrong, it will. This is common with people who take on too much, are unorganized, or are too busy. Another cause of this particular type of stress is ceaseless worrying.
This stress is usually a brief event and is often due to an impending deadline, performance, or a traumatic event.
This type of stress involves ongoing demands, pressures and worries that seem to go on forever, with little hope of letting up.
This stress is often caused by detrimental situations that last long term. Examples of these are: poverty, dysfunctional families, divorce, or being trapped in an awful job or marriage/relationship.
Some people can forget about this type of stress because it is so constant, but it continues to be bad for their health.
If stress continues for long periods of time, or interfere with life in general, you should seek professional help. You should also seek help if:
There are many different methods for combating stress, but here are some simple, everyday techniques to use.
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