Stressors

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Stressors are stimuli that cause stress. Stressors can be physical or psychological, and can be external or internal to the organism. Stressors can be acute or chronic, and can have a cumulative effect on the organism.

Types of stressors[edit | edit source]

Stressors can be classified into two broad categories: psychological and physical.

Psychological stressors[edit | edit source]

Psychological stressors are events or situations that are perceived as threatening or harmful by the individual. These can include major life events, such as the death of a loved one, divorce, or job loss, as well as daily hassles, such as traffic jams, arguments, or deadlines. Psychological stressors can also include chronic conditions, such as poverty, discrimination, or chronic illness.

Physical stressors[edit | edit source]

Physical stressors are physical conditions or events that cause stress. These can include extreme temperatures, noise, crowding, and physical injury or illness. Physical stressors can also include chronic conditions, such as malnutrition, sleep deprivation, or chronic pain.

Effects of stressors[edit | edit source]

Stressors can have a wide range of effects on the organism, depending on the nature of the stressor, the individual's perception of the stressor, and the individual's coping resources. Effects can include physical symptoms, such as headaches, stomachaches, and sleep disturbances, as well as psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and irritability. Chronic exposure to stressors can also lead to long-term health problems, such as heart disease, diabetes, and mental health disorders.

Coping with stressors[edit | edit source]

There are many strategies for coping with stressors, including problem-solving, seeking social support, and using relaxation techniques. The effectiveness of these strategies can depend on the nature of the stressor, the individual's perception of the stressor, and the individual's coping resources.

See also[edit | edit source]

Stressors Resources
Doctor showing form.jpg
Wiki.png

Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD


Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.

Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD