Stress is a natural part of life that affects all of us at some point. It is our body’s normal response to a perceived threat or danger and is important for human survival. However, excessive stress can have negative effects on our health.
Stress can be acute or chronic depending upon its duration. Both these types affect our mental and physical health in different ways.
In this blog we are going to learn about acute vs chronic stress, including their causes, symptoms, and management options. Understanding these differences is the first step towards its identification and effective management.
| Aspect | Acute Stress | Chronic Stress |
| Duration | Short-term | Long-term |
| Cause | Specific events or situations | Ongoing issues (e.g. demanding job, chronic illness) |
| Onset | Sudden | Gradual and persistent |
| Common symptoms | Anxiety, aggression, irritability, sleep disturbances | Irritability, depression, fatigue, physical health issues |
| Resolution | Often resolves on its own | Usually requires therapy or medication |
| Impact | Temporary discomfort | Long-lasting health complications |
Acute Stress:
It is a short-term stress response to specific temporary situations like immediate challenges or pressures. It is also known as a “fight or flight” response of our body. Our body releases hormones like adrenaline and cortisol which prepare us to either face and fight the perceived threat or danger or flee away from it. This response is meant to be short term, and once the threat has passed, the body should return to its normal state.
A short term stress can be beneficial as it boosts the energy and motivates us to handle difficult situations and challenges. But if it is severe or repetitive, stress can cause negative effects on mental and physical health.
Causes:
It can be caused by a variety of temporary and specific stimulus, like;
- Taking an exam
- Appearing in a job interview
- Experiencing a near-miss car accident
- Public speaking
- Work deadlines
- Medical emergencies
Symptoms:
Here are some common symptoms;
- Palpitations
- Sweating
- Tremors or trembling
- Shortness of breath
- Stomach pain
- Nausea
- Indigestion
- Anxiety
- Increased irritability
- Aggression
- Trouble sleeping
- Disturbing dreams
- Nail biting
Management:
It is usually self-limiting, as it resolves on its own, once the threatful situation has passed. However, there are some strategies which can help reduce stress and manage it in a better way. Here are some of them;
- Deep breathing
- Gentle exercise
- Meditation
- Self care
- Healthy eating
- Limiting caffeine intake
- Trying relaxation techniques
- Staying away from the triggers
Chronic Stress:
It is a prolonged (weeks, months or years) or ongoing state of stress caused in response to repeated or long term exposure to stressful situations, without adequate relief. It has a significant and devastating effects on both mental as well as physical health of a person.
Causes:
It can be caused due to many factors. Here are some of them;
- Financial problems
- Toxic relationships
- Demanding jobs or high pressure work environments
- Chronic illnesses
- Long term caregiving
- Trauma
- Life changing events such as loss of a loved one
Symptoms:
Long term exposure to a high level of stress hormones has significant and severe effects on both mental and physical well-being of a person.
Here are some common symptoms of chronic stress;
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Anger
- Irritability
- Isolation
- Poor memory and concentration
- Chronic pain
- Muscle fatigue
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- Sleep issues (Sleeping too much or too little)
- Appetite changes ( Eating too much or too little)
Chronic stress can also lead to other health problems like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, stomach ulcers, heart problems, and weakened immune function as well.
Management:
It requires a comprehensive treatment and management approach. Here are a few strategies you can use to reduce your stress and take control of your well-being;
- Lifestyle changes like regular exercise, eating healthy and getting adequate sleep can help with acute as well as chronic stress management
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), which will help you reframe negative thought patterns and develop healthy coping mechanisms
- Practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques like meditation and yoga
- Medications like prescription drugs for anxiety and depression can also help with chronic stress management. You can also be prescribed some medicines by your doctor which treats your specific symptoms of stress. For example if you are having sleep disturbances due to your stress, your doctor may prescribe you some medicines that will help you with your sleep problems.
You should consult a healthcare professional before taking any medications, as they can prescribe you medicines according to your specific condition.
If you need help or guidance regarding your stress or other mental health concerns, you can contact organisations like mind for support and help.
Final Thoughts:
Stress is a complex physiological response that can affect our body and mind in many ways. It can be acute or chronic. Acute stress arises from specific short-term situations while chronic stress stems from persistent circumstances. By understanding different types of stress, its causes, symptoms and management options, we can deal with it effectively and lead a happier and healthier life.
Hope this blog helped you to have a better understanding regarding acute vs chronic stress!
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