VPCOG OfficeBlog April 6, 2025 According to the World Health Organization (WHO) stress is defined as a state of worry or mental tension caused by a difficult situation. Stress is a natural human response that prompts us to address challenges and threats in our lives. Everyone experiences stress to some degree, but it’s the management of stress that effects our overall well-being.While stress can be beneficial, too much can cause harm. Naturally, our bodies respond to stressful situations by triggering a series of physiological changes; increased heart rate, increased muscle tension, hyperventilation and other mechanisms readying us for battle. After the stress event has been removed, our bodies quickly recover, going back to its normal state. What tends to happen to the body when there are multiple unrelenting stressors is that the body is constantly on high alert, ready for battle at all times. That continued high alert status leads to poor concentration, bad moods, professional burnout and MENTAL and PHYSICAL health problems. When stress becomes chronic, illnesses such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, depression and anxiety can arise.Being able to determine your stressors is crucial in developing a plan to manage them. Talking to a health professional, participating in activities you enjoy, staying connected with family and friends or even blocking your schedule for “Me-Time” are all positive ways to manage stress. https://www.webmd.com/balance/stress-management/stress-management
