Experiencing stress prior to an exam, job interview, presentation at work or even before running a race is quite normal and is considered short term stress. Stress is a normal physical response to events that are considered dangerous or threatening by the individual.
The body's defenses kick in, so to speak, with an automatic stress response, also known as the “flight or fight” reaction. Short term stress contributes to winning the race, studying for the exam, preparing well for the presentation at work and doing well at the job interview. In an emergency situation, stress can save a life. The stress response is what helps a person rise to meet a challenges.
Chronic Stress and Anxiety
Generally, stress is the physical reaction to a current situation, while anxiety is the stress experienced for an event or situation that's anticipated in the future.
When stress becomes prolonged, it stops being helpful and starts becoming harmful to the body. This is considered to be chronic stress and it can affect health, moods, productivity, relationships and quality of life. It is this type of prolonged stress that requires management.
The body doesn't distinguish between physical and psychological threats, it reacts uniformly. So whether stress is due to an argument with a spouse, heavy traffic on the way to work or a pile of bills that need paying, the body reacts in the same way.
Causes of Stress and Anxiety
Some of the things that are considered to be major contributors of stress and anxiety are the death of a spouse, divorce, marriage separation, a jail term, the death of a close relative, injury or illness, marriage, being fired from a job, marriage reconciliation and retirement.
Effects of Chronic Stress and Anxiety
The effects of continual stress can have a detrimental effect on the general well-being of an individual. Many health conditions and problems can be directly linked to chronic stress and anxiety. These effects could include obesity, autoimmune diseases, skin conditions such as eczema, heart disease, digestive problems, sleep problems and even general body pain.
Considering the effects of chronic stress and anxiety on the human body highlights the importance of managing stress on a daily basis.
Managing Stress
The importance of stress management is evident when considering the effects prolonged stress can have on the human body. Long-term exposure to stress can lead to serious health problems such as raised blood pressure, suppression of the immune system, heart attack and stroke, infertility, and acceleration of the aging process.
Therefore, a person who suffers from continuous stress and anxiety levels should seek ways of reducing the causes of stress and anxiety. Seek professional assistance if necessary.
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Fleur Hupston - Fleur Hupston is a professional freelance writer based in Botswana, Southern Africa. From this unique perspective, she writes travel ...
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