Stress

HOW STRESS WORKS

INTRODUCTION

The fast paced life we expereicne on a daily basis can be very demanding on our minds and bodies. Chronic stress can be linked to many physical and mental conditions that drain us to the point of exhaustion. Prolonged stress weakens the immune system and makes us more vulnerable to many types of health conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease and depression. On the other side, a little stress can be good for us mentally; it heightens our emotions, improves our memories, and sharpens our focus which can help with everyday tasks.

THE STRESS RESPONSE

The most basic definition of the stress response is the “Fight or Flight” reaction. Being confronted by a dangerous or stressful situation causes your body to respond in an accelerated way. The body releases chemicals and hormones in the brain such as adrenaline and cortisol. Red blood cells flood the immune system as it gears up for the possibility of injury. Energy stores are diverted to muscle strength, brain function, heart and lungs and away from less important functions (digestion, hunger). Your stress response helps you deal appropriately with a dangerous situation.

The same Fight or Flight response that changes your energy level(s) due to dangerous situations can work in similar ways in other situations. For example, A job interview or falling in love can cause similar physical reactions. Deciphering between what is happiness and what is stress depends on the particular situation and how we perceive it. If we perceive the event as negative, then we set ourselves up to experience stress. To be calm is to return yourself to a healthier state physically and mentally. The fight or flight response can increase to the point of becoming overloaded. Becoming overloaded is a result from the stress we experience in our lives. Bad relationships or stress in the workplace can cause us to feel edgy, tired and rundown. This prolonged state of mind, over...