Stress
Stress
is an inescapable fact of life. We all experience stress to
some degree, even in our every day living. To some, stress
is the spice of life, but to others it is a tormenting aggravation. Stress,
even though it sounds like a difficult word to deal with, is not
always a bad thing. Stress can be a good experience that excites
and invigorates when handled properly. We experience stress
when trying to cross a busy street, when we are exposed to changes
in temperature and even when we shop for gifts. It is not
the stress that is problematic, it is how it is coped with and
how prepared
you are to take it on that is the deciding factor in its effect
on your life, mind and body. What Causes Stress
Things that cause stress
are called stressors. They
can be as simple as a fly buzzing around your head, or as complicated
as facing major surgery. When you face a stressor your body
reacts in several steps. First, the fight or flight impulse
begins as messages are sent from the brain to the endocrine system. If
the stress stops, you return to normal. If it continues, the
resistance stage begins. Your body attempts to adapt to the
stress by running from the fight or preparing to fight. If
the stress continues you may become exhausted, and you body becomes
worn down. This may cause ill health and chronic disease.
Chronic stress can cause
many effects. You
are never able to completely relax, you feel drained of energy, susceptibility
to colds increase, infection, ulcers, digestive related problems,
high blood pressure, asthma, heart disease, arthritis, and premature
aging may also occur.
People who have high stress
levels are more likely to have a lower immune system. In
1988, a study conducted showed that there is a significant increase
in immune cells when the mind
and body are trained to deal with stress.
The Medical Approach to Stress
The medical approach to
stress treatment focuses on drugs. Tranquilizers
and other prescribed drugs may reduce stress, however it is not a
solution to the problem.
Stress Solutions
Companionship is one of
the most effective means of reducing stress levels. Studies
show that having a companion, weather it be a person or pet, helps
to combat stress.
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