Stress

Stress is the body's reaction to a specific situation that causes emotional and, in some cases, physical tension. The nervous system and the corticosteroids produced by the body are responsible for this response, which is not harmful when experienced at low levels.

Stress becomes a health condition when it is so intense that it surpasses the body's resistance levels or persists for an extended period. Depending on its intensity, stress can be classified as:

• Acute stress: Lasts only long enough to respond to a specific need, such as an argument or an urgent work task. In these cases, it is not harmful.
• Chronic stress: Lasts for weeks or months, affecting both physical and mental health.

There are different types of stress depending on the factors that trigger it. The most common include:

• Work-related stress, caused by a fast-paced work environment or an excessive workload.
• Emotional stress, which arises when experiencing unpleasant situations and accumulating negative emotions.
• Post-traumatic stress, triggered by a terrifying event.

Symptoms

Stress manifests in different ways depending on its causes and an individual’s characteristics. In many cases, its symptoms can be confused with other physical illnesses, making diagnosis challenging. The most common signs include:

• Anxiety and restlessness.
• Sometimes, symptoms of depression.
• Fatigue.
• Insomnia.
• Irritability and sudden outbursts of anger.
• Changes in sexual desire.
• Lack of concentration.
• Headaches.
• Muscle tension.
• Chest tightness and tachycardia.
• Excessive sweating.
• Gastrointestinal disorders.

Causes

Situational or adaptive stress, also known as eustress (good stress), is usually linked to environmental or personal demands that require significant involvement or a quick response to solve a problem. When stress becomes chronic or results from unpleasant or involuntary external demands (distress or bad stress), the initial adrenergic response is not enough, leading to the sustained release of hormones like cortisol. Over time, this can cause significant emotional, cognitive, behavioral, and physical changes.

Personal coping strategies and the perception of a demand as a challenge or a threat play a crucial role in determining whether a situation will be experienced as stressful (eustress vs. distress). Therefore, the causes of stress are not limited to external situations but also include our mental ability to perceive them as challenges (eustress) or threats (distress). Psychological vulnerability, poor coping strategies, insecurity, or negativity can all become stress triggers, regardless of the situation itself.

Risk Factors

Anyone, regardless of age or gender, can experience stress. Due to its nature, facing a situation that requires emotional strain to handle is a risk factor.

Additionally, individuals who are more sensitive or introverted tend to feel more pressured by external circumstances and are more prone to experiencing stress.

Complications

When stress persists over time, the body suffers from excessive hormone release and tension, putting overall health at risk. Constantly remaining on high alert due to a perceived ongoing threat can lead to:

• Increased blood pressure.
• Diabetes.
• Obesity.
• Heart failure.
• Depression.
• Anxiety.
• Acne.
• Menstrual irregularities.

Prevention

Prevention is essential in managing stress. The following recommendations can help reduce the risk of developing it:

• Engage in moderate physical exercise regularly.
• Reduce the consumption of tobacco, alcohol, and other stimulants.
• Participate in relaxing activities.
• Set aside time for leisure every day.
• Allow yourself time to adapt to changes.
• Develop coping strategies and learn to view challenges as opportunities rather than threats.

What doctor treats stress?

A clinical psychologist. In some cases, medication may also be prescribed by a psychiatrist or primary care physician.