Introduction
The concept of stress was first introduced in the early twentieth century from a medical viewpoint. It was discovered that stress had a profound impact on our body, especially in regards to how it affects our psychological, physiological and emotional wellbeing. Stress is a normal physiological response to outside stimuli, and depending on our level of stress we can experience both positive and negative reactions. When the pressure of a situation becomes overwhelming and prolonged, it can lead to prolonged physical, mental and emotional distress, known as distress or distressful stress.
Stress has often been defined in terms of three categories: physical, mental, and emotional. Physical stress is caused by physical factors such as extreme temperatures, excessive noise, and strenuous work. Mental stress is brought on by mental events such as an argument, worry or strain while emotional stress comes from the fear of the unknown or a traumatic event. Research has shown that exposure to sustained psychological stress has adverse effects on the body and our overall health.
The most common and well-known physical effects of stress include headaches, chest pain, shortness of breath, heart palpitations, increased blood pressure, disturbed sleep and fatigue. Stress can also cause digestive problems such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If these physical symptoms become severe, it can result in a state of chronic anxiety, as well as depression.
The mental effects of stress can be just as devastating. When we are under stress, our thinking ability is impaired, which can lead to difficulty concentrating and focusing. Stress can also cause feelings of sadness and inadequate coping in stressful situations. This can be further compounded by impaired communication skills, which can lead to further problems with relationships and job performance.
Stress can also cause emotional effects, such as anger, fear, and frustration. When these feelings become overwhelming, individuals may turn to substance use as a means of escape. These emotions can also increase the risk of developing mental health disorders such as depression and post-traumatic stress disorder, as well as increase the likelihood of committing suicide.
In addition to the physical and psychological impacts, stress can have profound effects on behavior. When an individual is under high amounts of stress, it can make them more prone to take risks, act impulsively and make dangerous decisions.
The effects of stress can be managed through diverse strategies, such as relaxation techniques, exercise, healthy lifestyle choices, communication skills and support from the social environment. Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation and yoga have been proven to be useful in managing stress. Exercise has also been found to provide a calming effect and can help reduce the body’s stress response. Additionally, lifestyle changes, such as getting enough sleep, eating well, avoiding alcohol, and avoiding smoking can be beneficial in managing stress. Finally, having access to positive social networks, support and resources can help reduce the impact of stress.
Conclusion
Stress is a normal physiological response to outside stimuli and can have both positive and negative effects on our mental, physical and emotional health.When the pressure of a situation becomes too much, it can result in physical, mental and emotional distress. In order to manage stress effectively, individuals should practice relaxation techniques, make lifestyle changes, and develop positive support networks. By addressing the source of stress, and implementing simple stress-relieving habits, individuals are better able to cope with stressful situations.
