Help CenterStress is defined as “real or perceived threat to homeostasis or well-being” (Herman, 2013).
Stressors can be acute or chronic.
Our biological stress system (HPA axis and sympathetic nervous system) is adaptive to handle acute stressors for survival.
It's wired to activate temporary resistance processes that allow the individual to cope with the temporary stressor (“fight, flee, freeze, appease”).
A healthy stress response activates for as long as the stressor is present then, recovers to baseline.
Chronic stressors lead to a prolonged stress response that damages health leading to
- Cardiovascular disease, stroke, hypertension
- Weakened immune system
- Stomach ulcers
- Sleep dysregulation
- Psychiatric disorders
Types of Stress Compared
Eustress
- “the positive stress response, involving optimal levels of stimulation: a type of stress that results from challenging but attainable and enjoyable or worthwhile tasks (e.g., participating in an athletic event, giving a speech). It has a beneficial effect by generating a sense of fulfillment or achievement and facilitating growth, development, mastery, and high levels of performance” (APA, 2018a)
Distress
- “the negative stress response, often involving negative affect and physiological reactivity: a type of stress that results from being overwhelmed by demands, losses, or perceived threats. It has a detrimental effect by generating physical and psychological maladaptation and posing serious health risks for individuals” (APA, 2018b).
Three factors make stress worse
- Frequency
- Unpredictability
- Loss of control