Stress and Anxiety

“Stress is not what happens to us, it is our response to what happens. And response is something we can change.”

Are you often bothered by worrisome thoughts and feelings?

Stress is a physiological and psychological response that occurs when an individual perceives a discrepancy between the demands placed on them and their ability to cope with those demands. It’s a natural part of life and can be triggered by various situations, often referred to as stressors. Stress can manifest in both positive and negative forms, and not all stress is harmful.

Positive stress, often called “eustress,” can motivate individuals to meet challenges, improve performance, and achieve goals. It is generally short-term and manageable.

Negative stress, or “distress,” occurs when the demands exceed a person’s ability to cope, leading to feelings of overwhelm, anxiety, and tension. Chronic or severe distress can have detrimental effects on physical and mental well-being.

Stress can result from various sources, including work, relationships, financial issues, health concerns, major life changes, and environmental factors. The body responds to stress through the activation of the “fight or flight” response, involving the release of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. This response prepares the body to face a perceived threat, but if stress persists over an extended period, it can contribute to health problems.

Effective stress management involves recognizing and addressing stressors, developing coping strategies, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Techniques such as mindfulness, relaxation exercises, exercise, and seeking social support can help mitigate the negative effects of stress. If stress becomes chronic or significantly impacts daily functioning, seeking professional help from a healthcare provider or mental health professional is advisable.

Anxiety is a natural and adaptive response to stress or perceived threats. It’s a complex emotion that encompasses feelings of fear, apprehension, and uneasiness. While anxiety is a normal part of life, helping individuals stay alert and focused in challenging situations, it becomes a concern when it is excessive, persistent, and interferes with daily life.

Anxiety often involves excessive worry about future events, even if they are unlikely to occur or are beyond one’s control. It can manifest in physical symptoms such as muscle tension, restlessness, fatigue, trembling, sweating, and increased heart rate. Individuals with anxiety may experience racing thoughts, difficulty concentrating, and a sense of impending doom. It can lead to feelings of nervousness, irritability, or a sense of dread.

There are several types of anxiety disorders, each with its own specific features. Some common anxiety disorders include – Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Pain Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Specific Phobias, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and Post Traumatic Disorder.

It’s important to note that anxiety disorders are common and treatable. If someone is experiencing persistent or severe anxiety, seeking professional help from a mental health practitioner is recommended.