Due to the hustle and bustle of daily life, it is easy to become stressed and overwhelmed. The anxiety that often accompanies stress can leave one emotionally drained. While health professionals warn that long-term stress can negatively affect one’s physical health, it is said that a little bit of stress can be beneficial. As one faces a demanding situation, muscles tense, the heart beats faster, and the brain uses more oxygen. These functions likely occur as an evolutionary trait that has been carried by human genetics for millions of years. When stressed, the body and its functions are preparing for one thing: survival. It may seem silly that the modern-day bodies of humans would adhere to such drastic measures, but the reaction one’s body gives towards stress is meant to increase the ability to perform. Stress can be thought of as a double-edged sword. While it may be good in some respects, it can also be extremely harmful to others.
Different Types of Stress
- Acute Stress: The most common type of stress, Acute Stress can be triggered easily. It is often brought on by seemingly minuscule events such as an argument with a family member or friend. While this type of stress is usually mild and healthy, there are instances in which one may suffer from severe acute stress. For instance, victims of a life-threatening situation or traumatic accident may suffer from acute stress, which can lead to mental health disorders such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) or Acute Stress Disorder. A little bit of Acute Stress can be healthy, though long-term exposure can have a degenerating impact on health.
- Episodic Acute Stress: Acute Stress that happens on a frequent basis is known as episodic Acute Stress. This is likely to occur in individuals that are short-tempered, irritable and anxious a lot of the time. People that lack coping strategies and seem to worry about everything are most likely to experience this type of stress. This type of stress can be difficult to treat because it requires a change in lifestyle, which is often difficult for those struggling.
- Chronic stress: If the symptoms of acute stress remain unresolved for an extended period, Chronic Stress may occur. Characterized by constant stress, symptoms may stem from a dysfunctional family or marriage, consistent poverty, or anything that may cause extended periods of stress and turmoil. Doctors warn that consistent exposure to chronic stress can lead to various health issues including depression, several types of cancer, cirrhosis of the liver and suicidal thoughts or actions.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Is there a sufficient way of managing stress?
A: Once identified, taking steps to manage stress such as exercise, relation, and organization techniques, as well as a strong support system may aid in the ongoing battle.
Q: Is all stress unhealthy or bad?
A: For a short period of time, stress is not unhealthy, though doctors warn that long-term stress can have damaging consequences on one’s health. In the long run, stress can suppress immune, digestive, sleep, and reproductive systems, which can cause them to stop functioning properly. Overtime routine stress can lead to diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, as well as many other health issues.
Q: Why does stress impact some more than others?
A: Stress impacts everyone differently. While genetics plays a role, often the ability to cope with stress is the key determinant in why stress affects people differently.
Q: Will too much stress make my hair turn gray?
A: While it is a myth that stress will make one’s hair turn gray, stress can lead to hair loss and numerous other health conditions.
Q: I notice that my acne gets worse whenever I am stressed. Is there truth to this?
A: Yes, stress has been linked to an increase in the oily substance that resides on the skin, known as sebum. This substance clogs pores, which causes acne.
Q: Are there any foods that reduce stress?
A: Hypothetically, any food someone enjoys will reduce stress. Particularly, dark chocolate reduces stress hormones. A fantastic excuse to eat more chocolate!
Q: Why does stress make it so hard to sleep?
A: Stress can cause hyperarousal of the body’s stress response system. This heightened state makes it difficult for the body to relax at bedtime.
Q: Can stress make me gain weight?
A: Stress increases the hormone cortisol, which can lead to fat accumulation. It even causes individual fat cells to become enlarged.
Q: Do men and women experience stress equally?
A: Men are more likely to develop stress-related disorders than women. This includes more aggressive behavior, hypertension, and the abuse of alcohol and drugs.
Q: Does someone’s background play a part in how much stress they experience?
A: Those that come from military families in which a parent was for an extended period are more likely to have problems dealing with stress and develop stress-related disorders.
