10.38 Stress Management

10.38.2 Define stress. 

Stress is a physiological and psychological response to a perceived threat or challenge.

When we encounter a stressful situation, our bodies release hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline, which trigger a "fight or flight" response.

This response prepares us to either confront the threat or flee from it and can lead to physical changes such as increased heart rate, rapid breathing, and elevated blood pressure.

While stress can be a normal and healthy response to certain situations, such as a deadline at work or a challenging workout, chronic or excessive stress can have negative effects on health and well-being.

Prolonged stress can lead to health problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and weakened immune function, as well as mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.

It is important to manage stress through healthy coping mechanisms such as exercise, relaxation techniques, and social support.

If you are experiencing persistent stress or related symptoms, it is important to seek medical advice to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.