Woman and Stress

Scientists describe stress as any change you sense or perceive, and your body's response to that change. These changes can be psychological, physiological, environmental and or/social they can be happy, unhappy or things you may not even notice. These changes or factors are called stressors, and stressors are what cause stress.

FIGHT OR FLIGHT RESPONSE

Coined by psychologist Walter B. Cannon in the 20 th century, the term "fight or flight" refers to our physical response to handling the stressors in our lives. Through a hormonal change, our bodies decide to contest (fight) or remove (flight) ourselves from the stressful event. In today's society most of us "fight or flight" daily. However, prolonged stress creates wear and tear on the mind and body.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU ENCOUNTER A STRESSFUL SITUATION?

Your physical response (fight or flight) kicks in. Your heart rate quickens Breathing speeds up and blood pressure rises. This is caused by the pituitary gland in your brain signaling your adrenal gland to release catecholamines (epinephrine, norepinephrine and dopamine) and cortisol. Continued exposure to stressors can lead to serious medical problems. The changes your body goes through in response to stress are designed to protect you for a short time. If these changes happen too often or for long periods of time, they can cause harm.See also Antidepressant use during pregnancy.