1. Not all stress is considered “bad.”
According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), animals have a natural response to stress that exists for a reason. This is what many call the “fight-or-flight” response. It’s there to alert you of emergencies.
When the body kicks into this mode, it releases chemicals and hormones that prepare you for danger. This is what makes humans feel almost superhuman when a perceived threat occurs. As a result, the heart speeds up, you breathe rapidly, and muscles tighten up. Your immune system is even said to respond. When the perceived threat has ended, your body goes back to normal.
2. There are three types of stress.
According to the NIMH, there are three types of stress. Each of these can have an impact on both physical and mental health.
The first type of stress is called routine stress. This comes as a result of stress at work, home or due to other daily issues. The second type of stress comes as a result of change that happens quickly. This is defined as stress related to job loss, divorce or becoming ill. The third type of stress is called traumatic stress. Examples of this type of stress include an accident, war, being assaulted or a natural disaster.
3. The body reacts to all three types of stresses similarly.
According to the NIMH, the body reacts similarly to each of these three types of stress. That said, you may notice this reaction differently than someone else. Some may get an upset stomach, but others may experience insomnia, and others may become angry or depressed.