Part of Lesson Plan: The Effects of Stress on the Body

Activity Overview / Details

The word `stress` is defined by the Oxford Dictionary as "a state of affair involving demand on physical or mental energy". It may also be a condition or circumstance (not always adverse), which can disturb the normal physiological (physical) and psychological (mental) functioning of an individual. This demand on the mind and body occurs when it tries to cope with the many changes in life. A `stress` condition seems `relative` in nature. In other words, what may be stressful to one person may not be stressful to another. Everyone sees situations for their own perspective. Extreme stress conditions, psychologists say, are detrimental to human health but in moderation stress is normal and, in many cases, proves useful. Stress, nonetheless, is synonymous with negative conditions. Today, with the many activities and varied lifestyles of people, we come face to face with numerous causes of stress and the symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Check for understanding by asking and allowing various students to answer the following questions. Answers are based on info in the above passage:

1. So, what is stress?
2. Does stress only cause physical symptoms?
3. Does everyone stress about the same things?
4. Is stress always bad?

How Stress Works

In a challenging situation the brain prepares the body for defensive action—the fight or flight response by releasing stress hormones, namely, cortisone and adrenaline. These hormones raise the blood pressure and the body prepares to react to the situation.

When we fail to counter a stress situation (flight response) the hormones and chemicals remain unreleased in the blood stream for a long period of time. It results in stress related physical symptoms such as tense muscles, unfocused anxiety, dizziness and rapid heartbeats. We all encounter various stressors (causes of stress) in everyday life, which can accumulate, if not released. Subsequently, it compels the mind and body to be in an almost constant alarm-state in preparation to fight or flee. This state of accumulated (built up) stress can increase the risk of both acute (short term) and chronic (long term) physical and mental illnesses and weaken the immune system.

Just about everybody—men, women, children and even fetuses—suffer from stress. Relationship demands, chronic health problems, pressure at workplaces, traffic snarls, meeting deadlines, growing-up tensions or a sudden bearish trend in the bourse can trigger stress conditions. People react to it in their own ways. In some people, stress-induced adverse feelings and anxieties tend to persist and intensify. Learning to understand and manage stress can prevent the counter effects of stress.

Check for understanding by asking and allowing various students to answer the following questions. Answers are based on info in the above passage:

1. What is meant by the fight or flight response?
2. What is a stressor?
3. What is the long term effect of built up stress?
4. Give some examples of events that can trigger stress conditions.

Some Stress Has Positive Effects

The words `positive` and `stress` may not often go together. But, there are innumerable instances of athletes rising to the challenge of stress and achieving the unachievable, scientists stressing themselves out over a point to bring into light the most unthinkable secrets of the phenomenal world, and likewise a painter, a composer or a writer producing the best paintings, the most lilting of tunes or the most appealing piece of writing by pushing themselves to the limit. Psychologists second the opinion that some `stress` situations can actually boost our inner potential and can be creatively helpful.

Experts tell us that stress, in moderate doses, are necessary in our life. Stress responses are one of our body’s best defense systems against outer and inner dangers. In a risky situation (in case of accidents or a sudden attack on life et al), body releases stress hormones that instantly make us more alert and our senses become more focused. The body is also prepared to act with increased strength and speed in a pressure situation. It is supposed to keep us sharp and ready for action.

Research suggests that stress can actually increase our performance. Instead of wilting under stress, one can use it as an impetus to achieve success. Stress can stimulate one’s faculties to delve deep into and discover one’s true potential. Under stress the brain is emotionally and biochemically stimulated to sharpen its performance.

Check for understanding by asking and allowing various students to answer to share how working under stress has helped them in some way.