What is stress? Stress is not just a response or a stimulus. It is not merely a source of strain or pressure on a person. The concept of stress probably means different things to various individuals. As for Hans Selye, scientist, and pioneer researcher on stress, he defined stress as: a non-specific response of the body to any demands made upon it. It is a process by which we alarm, resist, and possibly become exhausted to environmental challenges and threats. This process is called the General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS.)

When we encounter a straining experience, a stress response is initiated and aftershocks of physiological, cognitive, and emotional changes are aroused. Stressors are bothersome events, such as threats, daily hassles, internal perceptions, worries and obsessions, which cause stress. A prolonged reaction to a stressor will produce a severe disruption called a strain. Stress symptoms then result, which may deteriorate your health, unless seen as a challenge. In that case, your confidence and sense of purpose for success may instead increase.

Stressed?

Sources:

Doublet, PhD., Serge. Definitions of Stress. Chesterfield: Science & Humanities      Press, 2000.

Dr. Gorman, Brian J. Foreward to the First Edition: Dr. Hans Selye. March 5, 2001.      The Stress Doctor. 15 July 2002 <http://www.stressdoctor.com/selye.htm>

Myers, David G. Exploring Psychology. New York: Worth Publishers, 2002.