STRESS MANAGEMENT 2

The most commonly accepted definition of stress

is as follows:

“Stress is a condition or feeling experienced

when a person perceives that demands

exceed the personal and social resources the

individual is able to mobilize.” 

Richard S Lazarus

People feel great stress when they think they

can't handle the demands put upon them. 

•      Stress is a commonly used word. Its origins are in physics where “mechanical stress” has been a longstanding concept.

•      In that context, refers to “strain leading to distortion of an object.”

For example, a steel girder may bend as the result of temporary forces such as strong winds acting against a bridge. Eventually, however, if the strain is long-lasting or excessive, the girder will break.

A similar analogy can be made with psychological or physical stress. Excessive and continuous strain on human beings from life's pressures and threats to one’s physical, mental or emotional wellbeing over a period of time, can cause a “distortion” of one’s physical, mental and emotional health.

In essence, the pressure overcomes the ability to cope.

Causes of stress - known as stressors - are in two

categories, namely:

External stressors –

physical conditions such as heat or cold, stressful

psychological environments such as working

conditions and abusive relationships, e.g. bullying.

Internal stressors - physical ailments such as

infection or inflammation, or psychological problems

such as worrying, anxiety, depression, poor self

perception/esteem.

To be CONTINUED