Stress can be defined as a state of worry or mental tension caused by a difficult situation. Stress is a natural human response that prompts us to address challenges and threats in our lives. Everyone experiences stress to some degree. The way we respond to stress, however, makes a big difference to our overall well-being.
Stress affects us all and can manifest physically, mentally, and emotionally. Whilst moderate amounts of stress can enhance our ability to respond to challenges, excessive stress can lead to significant health problems. It's crucial to recognise the difference between eustress, which can motivate and energise us, and distress, which can wear us down and impact our health negatively.
Adopting the House analogy, each positive, small action we take is like laying a brick. These actions might include taking a moment to breathe deeply, expressing gratitude daily, or setting aside time each week to unwind without technology. Though these bricks may seem small, they cumulatively form the strong walls of our resilience against stress.