Understanding Stress: Where It Comes From and Its Psychological Impact
Stress is a natural response to the demands and challenges we face in life. It is a natural part of being human and has helped us to survive in times of danger. However, while stress is a normal experience, its impact can be both positive and negative depending on how we perceive and respond to it.
What is Stress?
Stress is defined as the body’s reaction to any change that requires an adjustment or response. The word comes from the Latin "stringere," which means to "draw tight”. This is a good way to describe how our body feels under pressure. Stress can be triggered by external factors like work pressure, relationship issues, or societal demands, or by internal factors, such as worries, fears, or personal expectations.
At a psychological level, stress is a response to a perceived threat or demand. The brain releases hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, which activate the "fight or flight" response, preparing the body to react. This response can increase heart rate, enhance alertness, and redirect energy to muscles and vital organs, helping us to act quickly in the face of danger.
Where Does Stress Come From?
Stress can be triggered from both external and internal sources:
External Stressors: These are events or situations outside of us that cause stress. For example, job demands, financial challenges, relationship issues, health problems, or societal pressures (such as the rising cost of living or political instability). These stressors are often referred to as "acute stressors" because they are temporary and linked to specific events.
Internal Stressors: These arise from our own thoughts, beliefs, and perceptions. Sometimes, we create stress through excessive worrying, perfectionism, or unrealistic expectations. We may also experience internal stress when we struggle with self-doubt, fear of failure, or negative self-talk. This type of stress is often more chronic, as it stems from ongoing patterns of thinking.
Psychological Perspectives on Stress
From a psychological standpoint, stress is not just a reaction to external events, it is also influenced by our perception and interpretation of those events. Two key concepts influence how we experience stress:
Cognitive Appraisal Theory: This theory, developed by psychologist Richard Lazarus, suggests that stress arises from the way we appraise or evaluate a situation. If we perceive an event as threatening or overwhelming, we are likely to experience stress. However, if we perceive the same event as a challenge or opportunity for growth, we may experience less stress. In essence, stress is subjective—what is stressful for one person may not be for another.
The Stress-Diathesis Model: This model proposes that stress interacts with an individual’s biological and psychological vulnerabilities. Some people may be more predisposed to stress due to genetic factors or past experiences. For example, someone with a history of trauma or mental health conditions may have a heightened stress response, making them more vulnerable to the negative effects of stress.
Good Stress vs. Bad Stress
Stress is often categorised into two types: eustress (good stress) and distress (bad stress).
Eustress: This is the positive form of stress that motivates and energises us. It occurs when we face challenges that we believe we can handle, such as preparing for a big presentation, taking on a new project, or learning something new. Eustress can enhance performance, creativity, and focus, and it helps us push through challenges to achieve our goals.
Distress: This is the negative form of stress that results from situations that feel overwhelming or unmanageable. Distress occurs when we perceive a situation as threatening and beyond our ability to cope. Prolonged distress can lead to physical and mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, burnout, and cardiovascular issues.
While eustress can be beneficial and contribute to personal development, distress can have a negative effect on well-being, especially when it is chronic or excessive.
Stress and Our Values
Our personal values play a significant role in how we experience and respond to stress. Values are the principles or beliefs that guide our actions and decisions. When our values are in alignment with our actions, we feel a sense of purpose and fulfillment, which can buffer the negative effects of stress. However, when we face situations that contradict our values, stress levels can increase.
For example, if family and personal time are important values to someone, they may experience high levels of stress if they are forced to prioritise work over family life. On the other hand, individuals who value achievement and success may feel stressed when they don’t meet their goals or expectations. Understanding our core values can help us identify sources of stress and navigate difficult situations more effectively.
The Role of Chronic Stress in Mental Health
Chronic stress can have profound implications for mental health. Over time, constant exposure to stress hormones can lead to burnout, depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders. Moreover, ongoing stress can interfere with our ability to engage in self-care, manage emotions, and maintain healthy relationships.
Research also suggests that individuals with a higher perceived stress load are more likely to experience mental health challenges, especially if they lack social support, resources, or coping strategies. That’s why it’s important to not only understand the origins and nature of stress but also to seek balance and support when stress levels become overwhelming. Stay tuned to our next post highlighting evidence-based strategies to reduce stress when it becomes overwhelming.