SCIENCE OF STRESS AND ITS COPING MECHANISMS

Abstract

Stress has been explained, defined, characterized and conceptualized from biological, psychological, biochemical,
physiological and medical perspectives. Stress is thus a composite and multi-dimensional condition impacting
with profound consequences on man. It has been described as a force, which affects human beings physically,
mentally, emotionally, socially, and spiritually. At time, it is described as the body’s response to any undesirable
mental demands. Stress at times is described as the wear and tear that stressors inflict on the human body and
mental plus behavioural characteristics describing how people react to the demand placed upon them, causing
them to worry and compromising ability to cope. Some stress is expected and can be positive force in our life
which is called Eutress. It is often what provides us with the energy and motivation to meet our daily challenges
both at home and at the workplace. This type of stress response is what helps us rise to a challenge and meet our
goals in the workplace such as deadline and targets. Some people will not consider this challenge as a type of
stress because having meet the challenges, we are satisfied and happy. Stress may also be described as an umbrella
term which encompasses physical trauma, strenuous exercise, metabolic disturbances and anxiety which
challenges the body’s wellbeing. Thus, it is a natural response that prompts us to address challenges and threat in
our lives. And so, a little bit of stress is good and can help us perform daily activities efficiently.