More Than One Type of Stress

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Most of us are well acquainted with the feeling of being overwhelmed, anxious, or mentally overloaded — and we often call that experience “stress.” But have you considered that there are other types of stress that are less commonly discussed?

Read below to learn more about different types of stress and healthy ways to cope while building resilience.

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1. Emotional Stress

   

This is what we most commonly call stress. It arises when you feel anxious, sad, or overwhelmed by life events. Chronic emotional stress can lead to mental health issues such as depression and anxiety disorders. Research also indicates that emotional stress can elevate cardiovascular risks.

2. Physical Stress 

   

   
   

   Physical stress is often overlooked. It can be caused by illness, injury, lack of sleep, intense exercise, under-eating, processed foods, or inflammation.

   
   

   Physical injuries and illness tax the body, but so do under-eating, insufficient sleep, poor diet, and chronic inflammation. Many of these stressors are not immediately visible, so we may not realize that some of our habits signal to our bodies that they are not safe.

3. Mental Stress

   

   
   

   Mental stress occurs when cognitive demands exceed an individual's capacity to cope, often due to workload, decision-making pressures, or information overload. This type of stress can impair concentration, memory, and decision-making abilities

4. Environmental Stress

   

   
   

   Environmental stressors include factors like noise, pollution, and overcrowding that can negatively affect our health. Studies have shown that exposure to such stressors can lead to increased emotional reactivity and physical health issues.

5. Social Stress

   

   
   

   Social stress usually comes from interpersonal relationships and social expectations. Workplace dynamics, family conflict, marital conflict, tension in friendships and social comparisons can contribute to this stress.

6. Internal Stress

   

   
   

   Internal stress comes from from within, often due to self-imposed expectations, perfectionism, or negative self talk and beliefs. It can lead to chronic anxiety and self-doubt, affecting overall well-being.

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How can we cope with stressors and build resilience?

1. Develop a social network of support

   
   

We were not made to live life alone. During stressful times, we need to lean on supportive community to strengthen us, encourage us, and support us through challenges.

Cultivating healthy relationships with friends, family, or coworkers can provide emotional comfort and practical assistance during stressful times, helping to buffer against stress.

2. Practice Stress-Reduction Techniques Often

Don’t wait until you feel overwhelmed to engage in stress-reducing activities. Set reminders to practice box breathing, take five-minute walks, or perform morning and evening stretches.

Practicing habits that consistently train your nervous system to return to a state of rest will help you remain grounded during stressful moments and strengthen your resilience.

3. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

Regular physical activity, a diet rich in whole, single-ingredient foods (and eating enough of them!), and adequate sleep are fundamental to building resilience. Without these three pillars, it is difficult to manage stress effectively.

A healthy body can better withstand and recover from stress. Conversely, an unhealthy lifestyle is itself a stressor, and when additional stressors arise, the body struggles to adapt.

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No matter what kind of stress you may be experiencing, you can begin making better choices and building habits that support your body in handling and overcoming stress. To learn more about stress and your body, subscribe to receive emails and additional content from Sol Health Co.