It is vitally important that we understand the different types of stress.
Having a level of understanding of stress can be beneficial for ourselves and those around us.
There are three types of stress. Acute Stress, Episodic Acute Stress and Chronic Stress
Now we know the names, how can we recognise them?
Acute Stress
Acute stress is short lived and is short-term.
If we experience repeated situations of acute stress, it can have a toll on our body and may lead to long-term cardiovascular illness. An example of acute stress may be a work deadline. This can cause feelings of pressure and acute stress. Often, these feelings subside quickly, and we return to a normal state.
Episodic Stress
Episodic stress is prolonged and long-term and happens when we experience acute stress frequently. Episodic stress further increases risk to our cardiovascular health and has been highlighted as a cause of stroke. Reasons can include persistent pressures at home or work over a prolonged period. The acumination of different pressures never allows our body to return to a stress-free state.
Chronic Stress
Chronic stress can bring on a feeling that it is impossible to find a way out and to change the situation. This is brought on by long term pressures and often accompanied by a decline in our physical health. Typical indicators include feeling burnt out, low mood, depression, and onset of minor illness.
How can we help ourselves?
- Breathing exercises
- Mindfulness
- Exercise
- Ensure a good sleeping pattern
- Socialising
- Periods of rest from work
- Learn to say no and be honest how overload of work etc affects you
Please be mindful that heightened stress and frequent exposure to stress will affect your overall mental and physical wellbeing.
What is the key here is to understand that a certain level of stress can be positive. Stress can often act as a motivator and not always be negative. Too much pressure and stress can cause damage to us mentally and physically. When that bridge is starting to “bow, buckle and creak” it is important to listen to those signs and symptoms before it is too late.
Remember to look after yourself and the people around you.