STRESS Flashcards
What is stress?
A psychological and physiological experience that occurs when an individual encounters something of significance that demands their attention and/or efforts to cope.
Stress can manifest in various forms and affects both mental and physical health.
Define stressor.
A stimulus (internal or external) that prompts the stress response.
Stressors can arise from various sources, including daily life challenges and environmental factors.
What is an internal stressor?
A stimulus from within a person’s body that prompts the stress response.
Internal stressors may include physical health issues or emotional disturbances.
What is an external stressor?
A stimulus from outside of a person’s body that prompts the stress response.
External stressors can include work pressures, relationship problems, or environmental changes.
Define distress.
A form of stress characterised by a negative psychological state.
Distress can lead to feelings of anxiety, sadness, or frustration.
Define eustress.
A form of stress characterised by a positive psychological state.
Eustress can motivate individuals and enhance performance.
What is acute stress?
A form of stress characterised by intense psychological and physiological symptoms that are brief in duration.
Acute stress can occur after a traumatic event or during a challenging situation.
What is the flight-or-fight-or-freeze response?
An involuntary and automatic response to a threat that takes the form of either escaping it, confronting it, or freezing in the face of it.
This response is crucial for survival and is activated during stressful situations.
Define chronic stress.
A form of stress that endures for several months or longer.
Chronic stress can have serious health implications, including cardiovascular diseases.
What is cortisol?
A hormone that is released in times of stress to aid the body in initiating and maintaining heightened arousal.
Cortisol helps the body manage stress but can be harmful in excessive amounts.
