Stress

What is Stress?

We all experience stress.
 
Stress is the body's reaction to an unexpected change in our life that requires a physical, mental or emotional adjustment or response. The cause can be internal – thoughts about ourselves, our situation, our health. The cause can be external too - from our immediate environment, other people, like family, friends, and co-workers, the nature of the work we do, social situations, or the economic environment, among many others.
 
Stress is a natural phenomenon simply because of our interaction with others and our environment. However, the amount and type of stress is what can make it an issue that needs attention. Knowing the signs of stress is the first step in dealing with it (see the sidebar).  Stress can be prevented, reduced, controlled and managed.
 
Keep in mind everyone responds differently to stressful situations and no one has the same experience. Equally unique is how we choose to deal with our stress. Among the factors that determine the varying degrees and types of stress are diet, age, physical health and mental health.