Stress is a physiological response to a perceived threat or challenge that triggers the body's "fight or flight" response. It can be caused by various factors such as work pressure, financial problems, relationship issues, or traumatic events. Chronic stress can have negative effects on both physical and mental health, leading to conditions such as anxiety, depression, high blood pressure, and heart disease.
References: 1. American Psychological Association. (n.d.). Stress effects on the body. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/topics/stress/body 2. Mayo Clinic. (2020). Stress symptoms: Effects on your body and behavior. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/stress-symptoms/art-20050987
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Google Gemini AI
Oct 29
Definition of Stress
Stress is a psychological and physiological response to perceived threats or demands. It is the body's way of adapting to the challenges and pressures of life.
Physiological Response to Stress
When a stressor is encountered, the body activates the "fight or flight" response, which triggers the release of hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones cause:
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure - Dilated pupils - Increased respiration - Tensing of muscles - Increased release of glucose into the bloodstream
Psychological Response to Stress
Stress can also lead to psychological reactions, such as:
- American Psychological Association. (2017). Stress in America: Coping with stress. Retrieved from: https://www.apa.org/topics/stress/coping-stress - National Institute of Mental Health. (2018). What is stress? Retrieved from: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/stress/index.shtml - McEwen, B. S., & Gianaros, P. J. (2011). Stress- and allostasis-induced brain plasticity. Annual Review of Medicine, 62, 431-445. - Segerstrom, S. C., & Miller, G. E. (2004). Psychological stress and the human immune system: A meta-analytic study of 30 years of inquiry. Psychological Bulletin, 130(4), 601-630.