Stress is a very common issue among all individuals. It has been discovered that all people, regardless of age and social status, experience some degree of stress. When the body is introduced to more than it feels as if it can handle appropriately, it has a natural tendency to react to the things that it interprets as a direct threat.

We each have a response that is actually instinctual and ultimately for self protection. Many medical professionals refer to this as the "fight or flight response". When our brain interprets a danger, or experiences a high level of anxiety, this response is initiated. Here, you will learn many useful facts regarding the definition of stress and the effects of stress on the body.

When Is Stress Experienced?

Stress can be experienced in many different situations, in many times in a person's life. Many children and teenagers experience stress while attending school due to the fact that they experience worry and concern over academic achievements, as well as peer pressure.

Young men and women may experience stress when it comes to post secondary education, relationships, and more. Many may experience stress as parents, during grief, and similar circumstances. Stress is a unique and personal experience. No two people will experience stress in the same way as another.

The Physiological and Psychological Symptoms of Stress

There are a number of physiological and psychological symptoms of stress that may be experienced. Seeing that this particular response in the body is actually unique per individual, it is important to learn how your body reacts to stress personally. The following symptoms are most common to the individual experiencing this condition:

Physiological Symptoms

• Many may experience pain in the body when they experience stress. This pain may be localized to the head and/or back area.

• Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia may become present.

• Many individuals may experience fluctuations in weight.

• Many may find that the muscles throughout their body are stiff and sore when they experience stress.

• If an individual experiences stress consistently, it is very likely that the immune system will become jeopardized easily. This means that he or she may suffer from sicknesses more frequently.

• Gastrointestinal complications are quite common when it comes to individuals who are experiencing stress. It is not uncommon for someone to experience bouts of diarrhea, nausea, and even vomiting.

• Difficulty remembering things and concentrating is common when high levels of stress are experienced.

• Individuals may experience severe mood swings. This includes experiencing depression and anxiety.

• Individuals who experience stress have a difficult time making choices and thinking rationally.

• When stressed, one will find it hard and troublesome to relax.

• Having a "short fuse" or getting angry quickly is a common result of stress.

• Many who experience stress may suffer from the emotional effects of feeling lonely and isolated from others.

Stress is a very personal experience, which every single individual experiences to some degree at least once in their lives. There are a number of reasons why this may be experienced. Something as simple as the inability to sleep, or something as complicated as losing a loved one can result in stress.

There are many physiological and psychological symptoms that can be experienced with stress. However, the exact definition of stress varies from person to person and impacts one's life differently, according to his or her circumstances.