WHAT IS STRESS?
What is stress? Stress, according to Psychology Today, is the psychological perception of pressure, and the body's response to it. Notice in this definition, they say stress is a perception. This is what makes stress so individualized! Each of our minds reacts to situations and receives stress differently. This leads me to another important point: everyone experiences acute stress, although some people don't like to admit it. Getting overwhelmed by responsibilities, changes or traumatic events can all cause additional stress.
GOOD STRESS
Good stress exists! It may not seem like being stressed could ever be good but good stressors can be very motivational and protective. If students weren't stressed about grades or tests, it's unlikely that we would study and learn as much as we do with that stressor. People are generally stressed about tanning or burning; without that fear, we wouldn't put on sunscreen and protect our skin. So remember, not all stress is bad.
CHRONIC STRESS
Chronic stress occurs when your stress system stays activated for an extended period of time. Chronic stress can be harmful to your long term health, while acute stress is normal. For more on chronic stress, read https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323324#managing-stress.
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