What Is Stress?
It is a physiological response that is connected to an external event.
There has to be a stressor, for stress to begin. It is usually something like a deadline at work you must meet, or an exam you are sitting, too much to do or maybe it could be your in-laws are coming to stay. The word ‘stress’ is described as hardship, adversity, force or pressure. When our body is faced with this, whether it is from internal or external sources, a vital response process kicks in.
This is referred to as the fight-or-flight-response.
Going back in time- many, many years ago, the likeliest threat a human being would encounter to spark this response would be the fear that a wild animal was about to attack them, someone was screaming at them, or weeks without food. It made sense back then, that you’d need the strength to fight back or to run away fast. When our body is in fight or flight mode, adrenaline and cortisol is released. The heart rate goes up and blood gets pumped to our limbs and away from our digestive and reproductive system. Your pupils dilate to help you see and the mind becomes hyper-vigilant. The blood sugar levels go up as well. In a healthy stress response, the cortisol level rises and falls quickly – as soon as the presumed threat is out of the way.
Remember: Stress is a biological response that is a normal part of our lives.
Chronic stress, is when your body stays in this fight-or-flight mode continuously (usually because the situation isn’t resolved, as with financial stressors or a challenging boss and work situation.) Chronic stress is linked to health concerns such as digestive issues, an increased risk of heart disease and a weakening of the immune system.
- TIPS TO HELP WITH STRESS:
- Limit Caffeine, Alcohol and Nicotine:
- Physical Activity:
- Get More Sleep:
- Relaxation Techniques:
- Talk To Someone:
- Keep A Diary:
- Manage Your Time:
- Learn To Say ‘No:’
- Take Control:
- Take Care Of You: