Stress
Stress is a familiar term that everyone experiences. But what is stress? According to psychologists, stress is a physiological and psychological response to perceived threats, challenges, or demands in one's environment. The response can be positive or negative, depending on its intensity and duration. While some stress is healthy and motivates individuals to perform their best, prolonged or intense stress can lead to physical, mental, and emotional health problems.
Factors that trigger and maintain stress
Stress can be triggered by a range of factors, including work pressures, financial worries, relationship conflicts, and health concerns. The way an individual perceives and copes with stressors can affect their stress response. Some coping strategies can add to stress, such as substance use, denial, and avoidance. On the other hand, effective coping strategies like problem-solving, social support, and relaxation can help reduce stress levels.
In 2020-21, 15% of Australians aged 16-85 years reported feeling lonely in the previous four weeks, while 16% of households experienced at least one financial stressor such as not being able to pay bills on time.
In 2020-21, 3.4 million Australians aged 16-85 years (17%) saw a health professional for their mental health.
15% of Australians aged 16-85 years experienced high or very high levels of psychological distress.
When the brain perceives stress, it activates the sympathetic nervous system, signaling the fight-or-flight response. The brain releases stress hormones, including cortisol, which triggers a range of physiological responses in the body, such as increased heart rate, breathing rate, and blood sugar levels. In the long term, increased cortisol levels can wreak havoc on the body, leading to physical symptoms, including headaches, muscle tension, and sleep disturbances. Stress can also impair cognitive function, memory, and concentration, affect mood regulation, and weaken the immune system.
Children and adults experience stress differently due to developmental differences. For children, stress can present as behavioral or emotional changes, such as acting out, clinginess, or withdrawing. They may also experience physical symptoms like stomach aches, headaches, and changes in sleeping or eating patterns. Helping children cope with stress may include providing emotional support, establishing routines, and encouraging healthy habits like physical activity, good nutrition, and quality sleep. For adults, stress can manifest in a range of mental and physical health issues, including anxiety, depression, heart disease, and chronic pain. Effective coping strategies for adults include maintaining a healthy lifestyle, seeking social support, and practicing stress management techniques.
Understanding stress, it's impact and how it manifests differently in life stages allows us to implement effective stress management techniques into daily life. iMost importantly, seeking professional help when needed can lead to a healthier and happier well-being.
