Stress

Nowadays, stress has become so common, that sometimes it is called 'the 21st century sickness' or 'the silent killer', among many other epithets. But, does stress really deserve such a negative connotation?

Stress is not always that bad. Actually, it is a natural physiological reaction. It prepares the body to meet any demanding or tough situation. However, it is true: stress could turn itself into a health issue, but only if it remains overload.

Everytime someone is under preasure, stress happens. The body tries to counteract dangerous or unpleasant situations (which are called stressors) by a series of reactions, in order to keep itself safe. It is innate, therefore, inevitable, and most of the animals experience it.

Stressors could be events that are over quickly (e.g. a final exam), or long-term situations (e.g. getting used to a new home). In both cases, the responses purposes are the same: to produce more energy and transport it to the brain and the muscles. That way, human mind is able to stratigize more rapidly, and the body has enough strenghth to fight or run away if necessary.

So, if stress is helpful, why it may become a problem? Because it is also exhausting. Getting continuosly stressed might unbalance all the organism systems. For example, for glucose and oxygen to circulate faster, heart rate is increased. If this occurs constantly, it may end up in a heart disease. Some other consequences of overload stress are: anxiety and panic attacks, stomach problems, allergic reactions, and even depression.

To avoid these, stress-managment skills could be developed. Basically, they consist of resting and being realistic: nobody is perfect and Superman is just a fictional character.

It is important to accept that contemporary lifestyle requieres stress to keep people alive. Moreover it is important to remember that, like the moon, if it becomes a cycle, the shiny side may turn dark.