What Is Stress, and How Do I Manage It?

Stress can be defined as the body’s response to any demand or pressure that disrupts its normal balance. This reaction can be triggered by both positive and negative experiences. When we perceive a situation as challenging or threatening, our body initiates a “fight or flight” response, releasing hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol to prepare for action. This can lead to various physical symptoms, such as a rapid heartbeat, quickened breathing, and increased alertness.
 
It’s important to note that stress is not necessarily a bad thing. In the right amounts, stress can stimulate growth, spark creativity, and aid survival. For instance, it can motivate you to prepare for an important meeting or react quickly to avoid a car accident. However, when stress becomes chronic or when one is constantly under pressure without adequate recovery periods, it can have serious negative impacts on a person’s mental, emotional, and physical health.

Chronic stress, often referred to as distress, has a profound impact on mental health, potentially leading to conditions such as anxiety, depression, and insomnia. The continuous release of stress hormones sets off a chain reaction that interferes with our brain’s ability to regulate emotions. This can result in feelings of restlessness, irritability, or overwhelming sadness. Furthermore, distress makes it challenging to maintain a positive outlook, often leading to a cycle of negative thinking patterns. In extreme situations, chronic stress can also impair cognitive functions like memory and concentration. At Westfall Associates, we stress the importance of recognizing these symptoms early and seeking professional help to manage them effectively.

There are numerous factors that can induce stress, and these often vary from person to person. Broadly, these triggers can be categorized into four main types: physical, emotional, environmental, and social. Physical stressors include bodily illnesses, injuries, or significant changes in health such as pregnancy or menopause. Lack of sleep or excessive physical effort, such as overworking, can also lead to stress. Emotional stressors, on the other hand, could be related to personal relationships, major life events like a divorce or death of a loved one, or deep-seated personal issues like low self-esteem or unfulfilled ambitions.
 
Environmental and social stressors encompass factors external to the individual. Environmental stress can stem from elements like exposure to excessive noise, overcrowding, or pollution. Natural disasters or events beyond one’s control can also be significant sources of stress. Social stressors can be seen in scenarios such as workplace pressure, financial difficulties, or social discrimination. Living in a state of constant uncertainty or having to adapt to significant changes, such as migrating to a new country or switching jobs, can also act as powerful stress triggers. It’s crucial to understand these causes of stress to better manage its impact on our lives.
 
Recognizing when to seek help for stress is crucial for maintaining optimal mental health. If stress is consistently interfering with your daily activities or causing noticeable changes in your mood, appetite, or sleep patterns, it may be time to reach out for professional help. Persistent feelings of being overwhelmed, a sense of being unable to cope, or experiencing symptoms of depression or anxiety are also strong indicators that it’s time to seek assistance. Remember, you don’t have to face this alone. At Westfall Associates, your mental health is our priority, and we are here to provide you with the support you need. You can call us directly or conveniently book an appointment online to speak with our team of professionals. We are conveniently located at 919 Westfall Road Building B, Suite 60 Rochester, NY 14618. We serve patients from Rochester NY, Brighton NY, West Henrietta NY, East Rochester NY, Irondequoit NY, Greece NY and surrounding areas.