So, what IS the definition of stress?
Stress is the results of demands placed upon a person. Stress affects feelings, thoughts, behavior and the body. Stressors are events or conditions which impact people. Types of stressors, severity, length of exposure and other factors affect the level of stress. The more stressors, the more severe the stressors, and the longer the exposure, the more demands are placed upon the person to cope. Stressors and lack of coping can lead to mental illness/substance abuse. Coping includes physical, thought, behavior and social methods. People who use more active methods cope better with mental illness and substance abuse. Combinations of methods (problem solving, reappraisal, etc.) work best. When people undergo crises, they learn how to handle stress better! Sounds like “practice makes perfect”, huh? Well, let’s get on with it!> “There cannot be a stressful crisis next week.
