Physiological Definition of Stress

What is stress? Stress is the perception by our body, of a Physical or Psychological threat.

How does our body react to Stress? The “Fight or Flight” response is the most prominent one.

Our Mind triggers a series of biochemical reactions, to get our body ready to deal with the Stressful event.

Neurotransmitters are released, like Epinephrine, Endorphins, and Cortisol, which have receptors on most cells of our body, affecting them in a positive or negative way. Stress could be Positive = Eustress, when it is constructive, short lived and pleasant. The fight or flight response is often associated with increased performance and success in business or before an athletic event.

Distress is negative stress when it results in pain and anxiety, and the perception that one’s response is inadequate to cope with the physical or psychological threat.

• Threats include major life events.

• Trauma, accidents, disasters.

• Physical and emotional abuse.

• Environmental stress.