Stress and Health Flashcards

Questions and Answers

Positive, short-term, motivating, and inspiring stress is called __________.

eustress

What are some of the physical signs of stress?

The signs of stress include headache, dry mouth, heartburn, constipation, depression, and insomnia.

Stress is the body's automatic physical reaction to real or imagined forces.

True

Stress can affect the circulatory system by causing headaches, heart attacks, strokes, and diabetes.

True Signup and view all the answers

Change in diet, sleep patterns, and routine are all __________ signs of stress.

behavioral Signup and view all the answers

What are the key signs of stress affecting mental health?

Constant state of alertness and anxiety can indicate stress affecting mental health. Signup and view all the answers

Compare and contrast eustress with distress.

Eustress is positive and short-term, providing energy for challenges, while distress can be chronic and negative, often resulting from mental or physical trauma. Signup and view all the answers

How can stress actually be a good thing?

The body's initial reaction to stress keeps you alert, gives you a burst of energy, and allows you to face challenges. Signup and view all the answers

Stress has an effect on every system of the body.

True Signup and view all the answers

What are the features of general adaptation syndrome?

The three steps are alarm, resistance, and exhaustion, indicating how the body responds to stress. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Understanding Stress

Eustress: Positive, short-term, and motivating stress that can inspire action.
Physical Signs of Stress: Common symptoms include headaches, dry mouth, heartburn, constipation, depression, and insomnia.

Nature of Stress

Stress triggers an automatic physical reaction in the body, whether the threat is real or imagined.
Stress significantly impacts the circulatory system, potentially leading to headaches, heart attacks, strokes, and diabetes.

Behavioral Signs of Stress

Changes in diet, sleep patterns, and daily routines are identified as behavioral signs of stress.

Mental Health and Stress

Key indicators of stress affecting mental health include constant alertness and anxiety.
Prolonged exposure to stress can exhaust the body's fight-or-flight response, increasing hormones that may lead to depression.

Eustress vs. Distress

Eustress: Short-term, motivational stress resulting in energy boosts; helps individuals complete tasks.
Distress: Can be short or long-term, often negative, and may arise from disruptions to routine or trauma.

Benefits of Stress

Initial stress responses enhance alertness and energy, helping individuals confront challenges.
Stress can improve concentration and protect from harm when experienced in manageable amounts.

General Adaptation Syndrome

Consists of three stages:
- Alarm: Rapid physiological responses such as hormone surges, increased heart rate, and adrenaline.
- Resistance: Body either confronts or avoids stressors while utilizing energy and resources.
- Exhaustion: Result of prolonged stress; leads to burnout and decreased ability to cope, compromising bodily functions.

Description

Explore the concept of stress with these practice flashcards. Learn about eustress, physical signs of stress, and the body's automatic reactions. Perfect for anyone looking to enhance their understanding of stress and health.