What is the definition of stress?

The Merriam-Webster dictionary lists the definition of stress as, "a physical, chemical, or emotional factor that causes bodily or mental tension and may be a factor in disease causation." What does all of that mean? It means that stress is real, and when we're stressed, we definitely feel it. Okay, so you knew that already, right?

You know it's real because you can feel it inside and out. Click on the link to read about some symptoms of stress.

When I'm stressed out, my stomach hurts, my head hurts, and sometimes I feel like I can't even breathe. It's miserable. My husband recently said to me, "What is the definition of stress? What does it feel like? I don't think I've ever had it." I just looked at him in total disbelief... mixed with a bit of jealousy. He is one of the lucky few that just plain doesn't let anything get to him. It drives me crazy, but I love him just the same.

So where does stress come from?

Stress can come from many different events in our lives, even good events can sometimes cause us stress and anxiety.

There are two main types of stress. The stress I'm talking about here is the bad kind. The kind that keeps you awake at night, gives you a stomach ache, and is taking away the enjoyment of life. These are the reasons why it is very important to get a handle on the stress you are experiencing. Especially if you are one of many living a stressed out life.

Look again at the last phrase in Merriam-Webster's definition of stress, "may be a factor in disease causation." That means that stress is harmful to your physical health, not just your mental health. I am living proof of that. Several years ago I ended up with chronic gastritis. Or in laymen terms, serious stomach pain that took a long time to heal. Since then, I've been on a personal crusade to rid my life of stress, or at least find better ways to deal with it. We can't all be as lucky as my husband.

We're experiencing stress at work or at school. We're stressed because we have a family to take care of, or we're having relationship problems.

Maybe you have a big event coming up such as a wedding or maybe you never have enough money to pay your bills and still afford to eat.

Whatever your reason, it's time to handle it instead of letting it handle you.

Take some time to arm yourself with a little more information on stress.

If you don't already know, figure out what is causing you stress. Take out a note pad and write down your physical and mental symptoms. Really get to know your stress. Then when you feel sufficiently armed, it's time to focus less on the definition of stress or what stress is, and focus on effective stress management.

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