Definition of Stress
When asked what our definition of stress is, we often say that it is when our workload becomes heavy, when our finances seem to fall short, or when a family member is suffering from an illness and needs special care. Simply put, it is a condition that we experience when pressure is put on us.
The condition is a subjective matter, though. People have different levels of ability to cope with stressful situations. Also, a stressful situation for you may be enjoyable or pleasurable for others. Let us take riding in a roller coaster as an example. While you close your eyes throughout the ride thinking about when it will end, others have their eyes wide open, enjoying the ride, and asking for more.
The definition of stress is generally regarded as negative. But, it is not always the case. Small doses of stressors can actually benefit us as it they make us motivated to be more productive as well as more alert and energetic. And if the pressure that we feel increases and surpasses our ability to respond positively, it is when stress becomes a problem.
It can affect as either mentally, emotionally, or physically. Among its mental effects are concentration difficulties, memory problems, and poor judgment. The emotional effects include irritability, restlessness, and depression. Dizziness, chest pains, rapid heartbeat, insomnia, muscle tension, and ear ringing or tinnitus are some of its physical symptoms, on the other hand.
Certain unhealthy medical conditions take place because exposure of the hypothalamus to continued and prolonged stress causes failure in the production of chemicals that the body needs to work normally. The hypothalamus is a primitive part of the brain responsible in controlling many systems in the body, and these include the autonomic nervous system and the endocrine system.
The best way to treat stress is to prevent it. To help you with it, determine each of the things that stresses you. If you think that a situation that you are in would get you stressed, one of the things that you can do is to inhale for three seconds, then exhale for a bit longer. Maintaining a healthy diet is also essential as what we eat and drink can affect the way we feel and behave. Of course, there is exercise, which improves blood circulation and prevents other conditions such as hypertension. It is also one way of channeling your frustrations.
Furthermore, there are various treatments available to help you deal with stressful situations. Getting help from a psychologist through counseling can help. Or, if you are not comfortable with it, have someone whom you are comfortable sharing your frustrations with. Alternative treatments like hypnotherapy, meditation, acupuncture, and relaxation therapy have also proved helpful for many.
The definition of stress may vary from one person to another, but one thing is certain: a positive attitude is always the best key to preventing it from negatively affecting your life.
