Stress refers to the body's physiological and psychological response to external demands or pressures,

often referred to as stressors. It is a natural and necessary reaction that helps individuals cope with
challenges and threats in their environment. Stress can be triggered by various factors, such as work-
related demands, financial difficulties, relationship problems, major life changes, or even positive events
like getting married or starting a new job.

When a person experiences stress, their body releases stress hormones, such as cortisol and adrenaline,
which activate the "fight-or-flight" response. This response prepares the body to either confront the
stressor or escape from it. Physical changes associated with stress include increased heart rate, elevated
blood pressure, rapid breathing, tensed muscles, and heightened senses.

Stress can have both short-term and long-term effects on a person's well-being. In the short term, it can
enhance performance and motivation, helping individuals meet challenges effectively. However,
prolonged or chronic stress can have negative consequences. It can lead to physical and mental health
problems, including anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, digestive issues, weakened immune system,
and cardiovascular disorders.

Managing stress is important for maintaining overall health and well-being. Strategies for stress
management may include practicing relaxation techniques (e.g., deep breathing, meditation), engaging
in regular physical exercise, maintaining a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, setting realistic goals,
prioritizing tasks, seeking social support, and engaging in enjoyable activities.

It's important to note that if you are experiencing persistent and overwhelming stress that affects your
daily life or mental health, it is advisable to seek support from a healthcare professional or mental
health provider.

Stressful events can encompass various dimensions that contribute to the overall experience of stress.
These dimensions include:

1. Severity: The severity dimension refers to the intensity or magnitude of the stressor. Some events
may have a greater impact than others, such as a major life crisis (e.g., the death of a loved one, a
serious illness) compared to minor daily hassles (e.g., traffic, minor conflicts). The severity of an event
can influence the level of stress experienced.

2. Duration: The duration dimension refers to the length of time a stressor persists. Stressful events can
be acute, occurring over a short period, or chronic, lasting for an extended period. Chronic stressors,
such as ongoing work pressures or financial difficulties, can have a cumulative effect on stress levels and
may be more challenging to cope with compared to acute stressors.

3. Predictability: The predictability dimension refers to the extent to which a stressor can be anticipated
or expected. Some stressors, like natural disasters, may occur unexpectedly and with little warning,
while others, such as impending deadlines or exams, can be anticipated. The predictability of a stressor
can affect the level of perceived control and preparedness, which in turn influences stress levels.
4. Controllability: The controllability dimension relates to the degree of control an individual perceives
they have over a stressful event. Stressors that are perceived as controllable, where individuals believe
they can influence or manage the situation, may be less stressful than those that are perceived as
uncontrollable. Lack of control can contribute to feelings of helplessness and increased stress levels.

5. Familiarity: The familiarity dimension refers to how familiar or unfamiliar a stressor is to an individual.
Novel or unfamiliar situations can induce higher levels of stress because they require adapting to new
circumstances and the unknown. In contrast, familiar stressors may be perceived as more manageable
due to previous experiences and learned coping strategies.

6. Interpersonal Impact: The interpersonal dimension considers the social and relational aspects of
stressors. Stressful events involving conflicts in relationships, social pressure, or loss of social support
can significantly contribute to stress levels. The presence or absence of social support systems can
influence the individual's ability to cope with stress.

It's important to note that individuals may respond differently to stressors based on their unique
characteristics, past experiences, and coping mechanisms. What may be stressful for one person may
not be as stressful for another. Additionally, multiple dimensions of stress can interact and influence
each other, shaping the overall stress experience.

Models of stress

A. physiological model

The General Adaptation Syndrome (Selye): Developed by Hans Selye, the General
Adaptation Syndrome (GAS) proposes a physiological model of stress. According to this
model, stress triggers a nonspecific physiological response in the body that occurs in
three stages:
a. Alarm stage: This is the initial stage where the body perceives a stressor and mobilizes
its resources to respond. The body activates the "fight-or-flight" response, releasing
stress hormones and preparing for action.
b. Resistance stage: If the stressor persists, the body enters the resistance stage. It tries
to adapt to the ongoing stressor and maintain a state of physiological readiness.
c. Exhaustion stage: If the stressor continues and adaptation is not successful, the body
enters the exhaustion stage. Resources become depleted, and the individual becomes
more susceptible to physical and psychological problems, including illness, burnout, and
decreased ability to cope effectively.