what is stress
Any shift that creates strain on the body, mind, or emotions is referred to be stress. Your body's reaction to anything that demands focus or action is stress.
Everyone goes through periods of stress. However, how you handle stress has a significant impact on your general well-being. It may be necessary to alter your circumstances in order to effectively manage your stress. Sometimes the best course of action is to alter your response to the circumstance.
ü Types of stress
Not every form of stress is detrimental or even negative. You could endure a variety of stressors, including the following:
• Acute stress: This is the kind of stress we experience most frequently in day-to-day living. It is a very short-term sort of stress that can either be helpful or more upsetting.
• Chronic stress: Chronic stress is a type of stress that feels unending and uncontrollable, such as the burden of an unhappy marriage or a difficult job. Traumatic events and early childhood trauma can also cause chronic stress.
• Episodic acute stress: This type of acute stress causes persistent distress since it appears to be pervasive and a way of life.
• Eustress: Eustress is energetic and enjoyable. It's regarded as a healthy form of stress that can keep you motivated. It's connected to adrenaline rushes, like when you're skiing or racing against the clock.
Stress symptoms
Both men and women can exhibit physical, psychological, and behavioral symptoms of stress.
Physical symptoms
• a headache
• diarrhea
• upset stomach
• heartburn
• muscle tension
• neck, back, or chest pain
• weariness
• a rapid heartbeat
• problems focusing
• Trouble getting or keeping an erection.
Psychological symptoms
• Loss of interest in sex
· Anxiety
· Sadness or Depression
· Irritability
· Restlessness
· Anger
Behavioral symptoms
• drug or alcohol abuse
• social disengagement or isolation
• less exercise
• gambling
• clenching of the jaw or teeth
• nightmares
• excessive or insufficient sleep
• Obsessive compulsive behaviors.
Effects of psychological stress
It is well known that prolonged stress can harm our health Reliable Source.
Stress has the potential to have a negative effect on our lives. Physical ailments like headaches, stomach problems, and sleep disruptions may result from it. Additionally, it can lead to mental and emotional stress, such as bewilderment, worry, and sadness.
According to the American Psychological Association, chronic stress, also known as persistent and long-lasting stress, can lead to high blood pressure or a compromised immune system if left untreated.
Additionally, it may accelerate the onset of heart disease and obesity Trusted Source.
Stress Treatments
There is no one unique, effective treatment for stress, nor is it a separate medical diagnostic. Change in the environment, the acquisition of coping mechanisms, the use of relaxation techniques, and the treatment of symptoms or disorders that may have been triggered by chronic stress are the main components of treatment for stress.
Therapy, medication, and complementary and alternative medicine are a few interventions that may be beneficial (CAM).
Psychotherapy
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and mindfulness-based stress reduction are two types of therapy that may be very useful in reducing stress symptoms (MBSR). While MBSR emphasizes mindfulness and meditation to help people identify and alter harmful thought patterns, CBT concentrates on helping people do the same.
Medication
Sometimes doctors will prescribe medication to treat certain stress-related symptoms. These medicines could be sedatives, antacids, antidepressants, or anti-anxiety drugs.
Alternative and Complementary Medicine
Acupuncture, aromatherapy, massage, yoga, and meditation are a few complementary methods that may also be beneficial for lowering stress.
Regular exercise
Regular physical activity can lower your stress levels and enhance your general health. Your body releases endorphins as you workout. These feel-good chemicals can help lessen anxiety and depressive symptoms.
