A useful way to conceptualize stress is to view it as a process whereby an individual perceives and responds to events that they appraise as overwhelming or threatening to their well-being (Lazarus & Folkman, 1984).
Stress is bumper-to-bumper traffic when you're in a hurry. It's a worrisome illness, an argument with your partner, a job turning sour. It's the need to care for an ailing parent and a pile of unpaid bills. Stress has many faces, and creeps into our lives from many directions.
Based on extensive research conducted by psychologist Andrew Baum in the 90s, the APA complements that definition by describing stress as “any uncomfortable emotional experience accompanied by predictable biochemical, physiological and behavioral changes.”
The 4 A's of stress reliefAvoid. Believe it or not, it is possible to escape some of the minor stressors that tend to trouble people: ... Alter. Communicate clearly and let people know your expectations. ... Accept. Accepting the situation can ease much of the stress when avoiding and altering doesn't work: ... Adapt.
Stress is a feeling of emotional or physical tension. It can come from any event or thought that makes you feel frustrated, angry, or nervous. Stress is your body's reaction to a challenge or demand. In short bursts, stress can be positive, such as when it helps you avoid danger or meet a deadline.
In its broadest definition, stress management interventions are designed to assist people to cope with stressors and with the negative emotions, physiological arousal and/or health consequences that arise from these stressors by changing their cognitive and emotional responses to the trigger events.
The term “stress”, as it is currently used was coined by Hans Selye in 1936, who defined it as “the non-specific response of the body to any demand for change”.
This model describes stress as a dependent variable and includes three concepts: Stress is a defensive mechanism. Stress follows the three stages of alarm, resistance, and exhaustion. If the stress is prolonged or severe, it could result in diseases of adaptation or even death.
positive stressClinical psychiatrist Dr. Michael Genovese says we rarely think of stress as a positive thing, but eustress is just that — positive stress. “Exciting or stressful events cause a chemical response in the body,” he explained.
There are several types of stress, including: acute stress. episodic acute stress. chronic stress....Chronic stressanxiety.cardiovascular disease.depression.high blood pressure.a weakened immune system.
What causes stress?Feel under lots of pressure.Face big changes in your life.Are worried about something.Don't have much or any control over the outcome of a situation.Have responsibilities that you find overwhelming.Don't have enough work, activities or change in your life.Experience discrimination, hate or abuse.More items...
AdvertisementGet active. Virtually any form of physical activity can act as a stress reliever. ... Meditate. ... Laugh more. ... Connect with others. ... Assert yourself. ... Try yoga. ... Get enough sleep. ... Keep a journal.More items...