What to do with stress?

Where did the idea of stress come from? 

Hans Selye was the first to apply the term ‘stress’  to medical terminology. Selye recognized that at the core of many illnesses, ‘stress’ is a universal reaction, with predictable signs and symptoms. 

What is stress? 

Stress refers to a person’s physical, emotional, or psychological response to something that creates a change, strain, or pressure. 

How does the body react to stress? 

The autonomic nervous system responds with a fight or flight response. This is meant to be a short-term physiological response in order to escape from a dangerous situation, such as an attack from a predator. 

Although we may not have to run from many tigers, our brain cannot differentiate the kinds of stressors we face. Work deadlines, financial strain, and relationship conflict can be interpreted as equally threatening. Thus, in the modern day, we may feel like we are fighting off one predator after another. 

The fight or flight response involves the release of hormones. Adrenaline and cortisol surge through the body to give it the energy and focus needed to fight or run. Responses such as the heart pumping faster, increased respiration, and increased tension are designed to help with an effective response. Yet we are usually not running anywhere. We are sitting at a computer or in a traffic jam. We are trying to juggle multiple tasks while keeping up with multiple sensor inputs. 

When we are unable to escape from the stressor, our body experiences a chronic activation of the stress response. Over time, the body’s natural ability to respond to stress begins to be affected. A number of physiological changes can trigger inflammation and disease processes, as well as psychological disorders such as depression and anxiety. 

What are the signs of chronic stress? 

• Sleep disturbances - not being able to get to sleep or stay asleep 

• Appetite and weight changes 

• Irritability and anger

• Muscle tension 

• Panic attacks 

How can I cope with stress? 

There are a number of health responses to stress. Exercise, yoga, obtaining balanced nutrition, regularly engaging in positive social interactions, journaling, meditation, and practicing gratitude may be helpful in managing stress. Many people find their faith in God to help with establishing clear priorities and maintaining perspective. 

Managing stress involves addressing both physical and mental aspects of one’s functioning. If you are experiencing the effects of chronic stress, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) may be helpful. CBT teaches skills for lowering physiological symptoms of stress and anxiety, altering thoughts so they are more realistic and workable, and engaging in activities that are of value. 

If you’d like to learn how to better manage chronic stress, contact Dr. Combs-Lane for more information.

* The information and resources contained on this website are for informational purposes only and are not intended to assess, diagnose, or treat any medical and/or mental health disease or condition. The use of this website does not imply nor establish any type of therapist-client relationship. Furthermore, the information obtained from this site should not be considered a substitute for a thorough medical and/or mental health evaluation by an appropriately credentialed and licensed professional. *