Mental Health Resources - Stress
Stress is the body's natural response to a demand or pressure, whether it's from the environment, an event, or a thought. It's a biological reaction that prepares the body to confront or flee from a perceived threat. When faced with stress, the body releases hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, triggering the "fight or flight" response. This response can be helpful in certain situations, motivating action and increasing alertness. However, prolonged or excessive stress can have detrimental effects on physical and mental health, leading to issues like anxiety, depression, high blood pressure, and a weakened immune system. Stress varies from person to person, and what one person finds stressful might not affect another in the same way. Learning healthy coping mechanisms and managing stress effectively is important for overall well-being.