THE STORY OF STRESS: WHAT IS STRESS?

STRESS IS THE 'wear and tear' that our bodies experience as we adjust to our continually changing environment. It has physical and emotional effects on us and can create positive or negative feelings.

As a positive influence, stress can help compel us to action. It can result in a new awareness and an exciting new perspective. Positive stress actually exists; it's called 'eustress'. It results from exhilarating experiences.

Eustress is the stress of winning and achieving.

Negative stress is distress. It is the stress of losing, failing, overworking and not coping. As a negative influence, it can result in feelings of distrust, rejection, anger and depression which, in turn, can lead to health problems. We all experience distress from time to time.

What are stressors?

STRESSORS' ARE THE events or situations that cause stress Acknowledging the source of the stress, is the key to managing it

Take a piece of paper and write the word

'Stress' at the top. Now write down all the words and images that com; to your mind as you think about this word. No two Iris not even your twin's, will ever be the same.

Stress is different things to different people

To a mountaineer it is the challenge of pushing physical resources to the limit by striving to achieve a demanding goal.

To the homeward-bound commuter, it may be the

hassle:., of heavy traffic and obnoxious exhaust fumes. To the student, it may be exam pressure

To the homemaker, it may be the dismissal of domestic help.

To the new bride, an unexpected pregnancy.

To the career person, it might be a missed promotion or a callous colleague.

To the single parent, traumatic memories and fears about the fu lure.

To the bereaved, the suddenness of toss.

Stress situations are unique to every individual.

Therefore, they are diverse and numerous.

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