Understanding the Distinction Between Acute Stress and Chronic Stress

Acute Stress

Acute stress is a short-lived, temporary, or single episode we come face to face with. When we are exposed to a real or perceived threat, challenge, or scare the body immediately responds and activates the flight/fight/freeze mechanism.

It is the immediate, intense, and in some cases ‘thrilling’ response that defines this type of stress as acute. Although the stressor (event) is short-lived and non-recurring, it is also a less serious form of stress and does not generally cause problems in healthy individuals. The stress diminishes once the situation is resolved.

Exposure to acute stress activates eustress as the body’s response and can be useful. In cases where a deadline is approaching, for example, stress gives an adrenaline rush and helps people to be more productive, motivated, and focused.  For example, students who cram before an exam will likely experience eustress. Being involved in a car accident, or having to give a presentation at work, we can thank eustress for getting us through the ordeal.

Severe acute stress however is much more serious and can negatively impact our health. It can lead to conditions such as mental illness, physical problems, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Chronic Stress

We want to avoid this form of stress at all costs. Chronic or long-term stress is the body’s response to an unresolved situation that has continued over an extended period of time.

This form of stress results in the prolonged elevation of cortisol levels in the body and is linked to very serious health conditions such as heart disease and stomach ulcers. Chronic stress can also lead to depression and more serious mental health conditions.

This type of stress is experienced as a result of a traumatic childhood and emotional or psychological scarring. Ongoing illness of a family member or long-term care of a disabled or elderly relative are examples of stressors that can bring about chronic stress.

Stressors are the ‘events’ that bring about or ‘trigger’ stress. Let’s explore.

Stressors (Events ) and Triggers

Stressors are the events or conditions in our surroundings that can trigger stress. Having an awareness of what they are and how they show up in our life is the first step to eliminating or reducing harmful stress.

Four main areas that trigger your stress response

• Social Stressors
• Physiological Stressors
• Psychological Stressors
• Chemical Stressors

Social Stressors

These are stressors that stem from relationships with others and the environment and present as life events and personal conflicts. They include but are not limited to:

• Working long hours
• Too much responsibility at work
• Being in a long-term unhappy relationship
• Winning the lottery
• Facing a serious health diagnosis /treatment
• Extended traveling/commuting, either in traffic or on a plane
• A new baby or getting married
• Caregiving to a disabled or elderly relative
• Divorce
• Loss of employment
• Finances

Physiological Stressors

Stressors that expose you to pain, vigorous exercise, intense heat, or cold. They can show up as the physical wear and tear on the body. They include but are not limited to:

• Excessive walking
• Excessive exposure to cold or hot weather such as a homeless person in winter
• A broken leg after an accident
• Obesity
• Long exposure to excessive noise
• Excessive cycling or extreme physical exercise
• Excess lifting of heavyweight such as an in the construction industry
• Physical fighting
• Sleep deprivation
• Physical Trauma
• Infection

Psychological or emotional Stressors

This stressor causes the emotional response of sorrow, fear, anxiety, etc. They include but are not limited to:

• Emotional childhood abuse
• Death of a loved one
• Dysfunctional or chaotic home environment
• A sibling or parental separation
• A violent or abusive marriage
• Parental rejection
• Being the victim of long-term bullying
• Confusion about sexual identity
• Lack of cultural identity

Chemical Stressors

Arterial blood imbalance or acid imbalance (too low or high Ph) are stressors that can trigger stress. They include but are not limited to:

• High sugar and junk food
• Caffeine drinks such as coffee
• Oral medication
• Nicotine found in cigarettes
• Chemical pollutants in the environment

In this blog, we looked at the effects of stress, and stressors that trigger stress. Your new learning will serve to identify stressors and deepen your understanding of the harm stress can cause to your physical and mental well-being.  Next, we’ll take a dive into Stress Prevention and Stress Management in Part 3 of this series on Stress.

A crucial factor in the management of stress is self-care. When was the last time you checked in with yourself and indulged in some loving care and kindness? Use this FREE Coaching Tool: SELF-CARE CHECK-IN AND NEEDS REVIEW to assess where you are at in terms of your self-care practices.

Stay tuned for part 3 of my mini-blog-series on Stress, and in case you missed it, click here for Part 1.

With grace and gratitude

Michelle

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