Psychology of stress

Stress can be a reaction to a short-lived situation, such as being stuck in traffic or it can last a long time if person is dealing with relationship problems, or other serious situations. Stress becomes dangerous when it interferes with persons ability to live a normal life over an extended period. They may feel tired, unable to concentrate or irritable. Stress can also damage their physical health.

Stress has powerful effects on mental functioning, mental and physical performance, interpersonal encounters, and physical well-being. Some researchers reported that 50-80% of all physical disorders have psychosomatic or stress related origins.

There are four major classifications or types of stress and I would like to describe them. First is frustration - stress due to any situation in which the pursuit of some goal is removed. Frustration is usually short-lived, but some frustrations can be source of major stress. Second type would be conflict - two or more incompatible motivations or behavioral impulses compete for expression. When faced with multiple motivations or goals, person must choose and this is where the problems or conflict arises. Studies have indicated that the more conflict a person experiences, the greater the likelihood for anxiety, depression, and physical symptoms. Third type would be change - life changes are noticeable alterations in one's living circumstances that require adjustment. Some researchers found that big changes like death of a loved one are very stressful, small life changes have tremendous effects. Forth would be pressure - expectations or demands that one must behave in a certain way.

On the other hand, sometimes, stress is normal. Some stress is good for person - it keeps him alert and protects him in times of danger. Feeling a bit stressed about exams is normal - it may help people to focus their energy into revising well. Prolonged and unwanted stress, however, may lead to mental and physical health problems.

In conclusion, stress is serious problem and there are many techniques, which can help to reduce stress like relaxation techniques. People should seek to control stress before it becomes to harmful for them.

References:

http://www.s-cool.co.uk/a-level/psychology/stress/revise-it/what-is-stress

http://www.apa.org/topics/stress/index.aspx

http://www.alleydog.com/101notes/stress&health.html

 Picture:

http://blogs.thenews.com.pk/blogs/2012/04/18/how-do-you-deal-with-stress/