STRESSORS; PART OF DAILY LIFE!
AUG 9, 2025
Without even realizing it, we all deal with stressors on a daily basis.
You might be wondering—what exactly are stressors? Stressors are any internal or external events that trigger a physiological or psychological stress response. These can range from time pressure at work to something as simple as a loud noise, like a tractor driving by.
According to the American Psychological Association, stressors can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term), and they vary widely from person to person. What’s stressful for one person might not be stressful for another.
Interestingly, stressors aren’t always negative. There are also positive stressors, known as eustress—a concept popularized in the book Why Zebras Don’t Get Ulcers by Robert Sapolsky. Eustress can actually enhance focus, boost motivation, and promote growth. So no, not all stress is bad.
🧠 WHAT IS A STRESS RESPONSE?
The stress response is your body’s natural reaction to a challenge or threat. When you perceive danger, your nervous system activates the fight-or-flight response. This releases hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, increasing your heart rate and preparing your body for action.
In small doses, this response is helpful. But when it’s constantly activated, it can start to wear you down—mentally and physically.
⚠️ WHAT HAPPENS IF WE DON’T MANAGE STRESS?
When stress becomes chronic and is not managed well, it can lead to serious health problems. Research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO) links chronic stress to:
- Cardiovascular disease
- Type 2 diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Gastrointestinal problems
- Weakened immune system
- Depression and anxiety disorders
🧘 HOW CAN WE COPE WITH STRESS?
You might ask: Can we eliminate stressors completely? The short answer is no—stressors are part of life. But we can learn to manage how we respond to them. Here are a few proven coping strategies.
- Exercise – Physical activity helps regulate cortisol and boosts mood-enhancing endorphins.
- Yoga and mindfulness – Reduce physiological arousal and improve emotional regulation.
- Identify your stressors – Journaling or reflecting on triggers can help you anticipate and manage them.
- Prioritize sleep and healthy routines – Lack of rest increases vulnerability to stress.
- Talk it out – Social support, coaching, or therapy can make a big difference.
