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Stress

Description

An in-depth report on the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of stress.

Highlights

Stress affects most people to some degree. Acute (sudden, short-term) stress leads to rapid changes throughout the body. These changes could prove beneficial in a critical, life-or-death situation. Over time, however, repeated stressful situations put a strain on the body that may contribute to both physical and psychological problems. Chronic (long-term) stress can have real health consequences, and should be addressed like any other health concern.

Fortunately, research is showing that lifestyle changes and stress-reduction techniques can help people learn to manage their stress. In one study, people who received cognitive behavior training and were later exposed to stress had lower cortisol (stress hormone) levels as a result of the training. However, studies also show that many people must still learn these techniques and how to use them.

• The results of a national survey that were released in February 2006 show that: “Americans engage in unhealthy behaviors such as comfort eating, poor diet choices, smoking and inactivity to help deal with stress.” The survey was conducted by American Psychological Association in partnership with the National Women’s Health Resource Center and iVillage.com.
• A report issued in October 2006 by the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends more unstructured play time for children. The report notes that today’s overscheduled, hurried lifestyle that many children experience is a source of stress and anxiety for some of them.

• Review Date: 10/25/2006
• Reviewed By: Harvey Simon, M.D., Editor-in-Chief, Associate Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School; Physician, Massachusetts General Hospital

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