Everyone, at one point of time or another, has had to deal
with stress in their lives. There are many different categories to stress and
there is a multitude of ways to manage stress. Eustress is a form of "good
stress" and this includes positive stress that improves performance,
increases productivity and makes you feel excited. Distress is a form of stress
that arises from negative experiences, sorrow or pain. Categories of distress, or stress, includes
acute stress, episodic acute stress and chronic stress. When we are exposed to
stress our bodies activate the "flight or fight" response. When this
occurs we have a quick release of adrenaline and norepinephrine resulting in
heavier breathing, increased pulse and increased blood flow.
Acute stress is the form of stress that is short lived and
is commonly caused by reactive thinking. This is the most common form of
stress. Acute stress can arise from having a difficult conversation with
someone and thinking about that conversation over and over again, worrying
about how the conversation went. This form of stress can lead to an array of
health problems, including muscle tension, headaches, stomach pain or increased
blood pressure.
Episodic acute stress is very similar to acute stress, however
it occurs when individuals frequently suffer from acute stress. Episodic acute
stress is broken down into two categories; "Type A" personality and
the "Worrier". Type A personality includes individuals that exhibit
excessive competitive drive, impatience and aggressiveness. According to
Friedman and Rosenman, two cardiologists that developed the categories of episodic
acute stress, Type A personalities are a significantly higher risk of developing
coronary artery disease. The "Worrier" is someone who frequently
worries about daily events. They have consistent negative thoughts about what
may happen and forecast catastrophe in almost every situation. Unfortunately
this form of stress can lead to high blood pressure, emotional distress,
muscular distress, irritable bowel syndrome and a wide variety of health
conditions.
Chronic stress is long term stress that is the most harmful
of the three. This form of stress is often caused by traumatic experiences in
one's life or from childhood trauma. If this form of stress is left untreated
it can lead irreversible physical and mental deterioration. Chronic stress can
lead to anxiety, depression or post-traumatic stress disorder. When someone is
suffering from this form of stress there is a change in that individuals brain
and body neurobiology. An actual physical change occurs within the brains
neurons and pathways that changes a person's personality.
With stress being a big part of our lives it is a good idea
to practice stress management. Find a hobby that you enjoy that helps you relax
and forget the world for 20-30 minutes per day. This could include crafts, yoga
or general meditation. These help by doing the opposite of the "fight or
flight" response, and there is a reduction of pulse, blood pressure and
breathing. A good mediation technique includes finding a quiet area for 10-20
minutes and focusing on your breathing. As you are sitting in a quiet place,
focus on breathing through your nose and focusing on something that is relaxing
to you to distract you from your surroundings.
Other stress management includes exercising, going for
walks, chiropractic adjustments and massage therapy. All of these work to
release endorphins, or the body's natural pain killers. They all also help to
keep our bodies functioning more properly by lubricating the joints,
strengthening the heart and overall reducing physical stress!
By: Dr. Travis Klug, D.C.
Source: https://spacioustherapy.com/3-types-stress-health-hazards/
