Stress is universal, but there are many misconceptions about it. Here are 3 quick facts about stress:
1. Stress is not always "bad" - there are situations when stress could be beneficial. For example, being moderately stressed before an athletic competition could actually improve performance. When stress is helpful, it is called eustress and when stress is harmful, it is called distress.
2. The stress response is also known as the fight-or-flight response - this response is activated when we identify something to be dangerous or threatening. This quick and automatic physiological response prepares our body to manage the threat.
3. The stress response is a survival mechanism - being able to quickly prepare for imminent physical dangers was and still is (but perhaps to a lesser extent) important for our survival. When finding ways to manage your own stress, keep in mind that our bodies are wired for survival, not peace of mind.
Our stress response is environmentally driven. The FDH program can help you identify stressors and manage stress in your different environments. Call us today for your free consultation: 773-747-5500.