Stress is a prevalent issue experienced by individuals across the globe. Presently, there is a prevalent experience of stress among large swathes of the population, occurring on a daily basis. Of significant concern, this unrelenting psychological pressure has been shown to give rise to grave health conditions, including but not limited to cardiovascular pathologies, digestive maladies, immune deficiencies, and psychiatric disorders. The present essay aims to explicate the deleterious impact of stress on an individual's psyche and elucidate viable coping mechanisms. 

From a psychological standpoint, stress is the physiological and psychological response of an individual in reaction to situations that are perceived to be physically or psychologically challenging, posing danger, or requiring significant endeavour. In response to stress, the human body initiates the secretion of stress hormones including cortisol and adrenaline, potentially resulting in heightened blood pressure, heart rate, respiration, as well as glucose levels. Extended exposure to these hormones may result in severe health complications. 

One salient cause of the deleterious effects of stress is its influence on cognitive processes in the brain. Elaborated exposure to stress has the potential to instigate a reduction in brain volume and consequently impair cognitive function in regions pertaining to memory retention, attentional processing, and executive control. 

Furthermore, the impact of stress on an individual's emotional well-being may result in the manifestation of depressive symptoms, heightened anxiety, and even contemplation of self-harm. The pathological use of technology can elicit deleterious outcomes with respect to interpersonal relationships, occupational endeavours, and academic pursuits.


What can people do to cope with stress? Here are a few tips:

  • Develop relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, deep breathing, and other breathing techniques.
  • Make sure you have time for rest and relaxation to minimize exposure to stress.
  • Take care of your health by eating healthy and regularly engaging in physical activity.
  • Avoid situations that lead to stress, and learn to cope with stressful situations.
  • Seek help from a specialist if stress begins to affect your daily life.

In summary, the deleterious effects of stress on an individual's physical and psychological well-being, along with their relational and professional capabilities, cannot be overlooked. The recognition and management of stress symptoms can greatly mitigate the likelihood of developing severe health complications, thus underscoring the cruciality of these actions. The recommendations delineated above, encompassing practices including the employment of relaxation methods, the maintenance of personal health, and the pursuit of assistance from a specialized professional, serve to facilitate the process of stress management and promote the enhancement of an individual's holistic welfare. It is noteworthy to recognize that stress represents an innate reaction to certain circumstances, and there exists a positive correlation between moderate levels of stress and the encouragement of individuals towards the attainment of their objectives. Excessive and prolonged exposure to stress can elicit deleterious consequences, thus prompting individuals to endeavour in achieving an optimal equilibrium in stress management. 


How stress destroys a person: a psychological perspective and ways to cope


Bibliography:

  1. McEwen, B. S. (2017). The neurobiology of stress. Harvard Health Publishing, 12(3), 71-79.
  2. Selye, H. (1956). The stress of life. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 16(2), 163-172.
  3. Lazarus, R. S., & Folkman, S. (1984). Stress, appraisal, and coping. Springer Publishing Company.
  4. Kiecolt-Glaser, J. K., McGuire, L., Robles, T. F., & Glaser, R. (2002). Psychoneuroimmunology: stress and health. Annual Review of Psychology, 53, 1-26.
  5. Cohen, S., Janicki-Deverts, D., & Miller, G. E. (2007). Psychological stress and disease. Journal of the American Medical Association, 298(14), 1685-1687.

Important words to remember:

  • Stress hormones
  • Body's response
  • Decrease in brain volume
  • Relaxation techniques
  • Coping with stressful situations
  • Psychoneuroimmunology.