Definition of Stress

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Definition of Stress

Definition of Stress

Stress is your body’s physical and/or emotional reaction to a life event or situation. Ironically, many people turn to alcohol, tobacco, or drugs to relieve stress, yet these substances tend to leave the body in greater stress.

You are not alone when it comes to stress, everyone experiences stress throughout their lives. Because it happens to everyone, the most important thing to remember is how you handle the stressful situation. Handling stress properly can make all the difference in the world.

Types of Stress

There are two types of stress: good and bad.

Good - Good stress or sometimes call "eustress" will enhance your bodily functioning. Your body has rewarding feelings. For example, when you experience that "adrenaline rush" from riding a rollercoaster you're excited and on a "natural high."

Bad - Bad stress or "distress" negatively affects your bodily functions. This leads to anxiety and feelings of uneasiness. This is the kind of stress most people relate to the term "stress."

Kinds of Stress

Acute Stress - This occurs in response to a traumatic, sudden event and your body experiences an immediate reaction. There is seldom a hidden reason as to the cause of this. This is generally what causes your body to increase its adrenaline levels and you experience the "fight or flight" response. Examples of this are car accidents, muggings, or death of a loved one.

Chronic Stress - This is a constant, nagging stress that doesn't seem to end. You wake in the morning and it's there and when you fall asleep it hasn't gone away. This can come from financial pressures, work, family life, or somewhere else.

Understanding and identifying different kinds of stress is only the beginning. Click further, if you want to understand causes of stress

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