Summarize the concept of stress and discuss functional and dysfunctional stressors in current situations such as family, work, and academics, along with coping mechanisms utilized.
I. Introduction
II. Main Body
1. Concept of Stress
2. Functional and Dysfunctional Stress
1) Functional Stress
2) Dysfunctional Stress
3. Stress in My Current Situations
1) Family
2) Work
3) Education
4. Coping Mechanisms
III. Conclusion
I. Introduction
The modern era emphasizes the importance of mental health. In today's increasingly complex society, stress is becoming more prevalent. Relationships with others, work responsibilities, various social issues, and the need to acquire new knowledge and regulations all contribute to the exhaustion of our minds and bodies. While medical and scientific advancements have provided remedies for physical ailments, there are no easy cures for mental illnesses. Stress, often considered the root of many diseases, is an unavoidable condition for humans as long as emotions are part of our existence.
If one could avoid stress, it would be preferable. However, since it is unavoidable, it becomes crucial to handle stress wisely. Doctors often consider stress as the fundamental cause of many illnesses. Failing to manage stress effectively can lead to mental fatigue and, ultimately, the onset of previously nonexistent illnesses. Here, we will explore the nature of stress, why we experience stress, and the significance of stress, as well as strategies for coping with stress.
Ⅱ. Main Body
1. Concept of Stress
In psychology, stress refers to the nonspecific biological responses of the body to various injuries and stimuli, as well as the process of bodily and psychological changes in response to external threats, attacks, or efforts to protect the body. The origin of the word "stress" can be traced back to English. The English word "stress" refers to external factors or forces that exert pressure or tension. It is also used when calculating force or pressure, and its dictionary definition includes pressure or tension.
When we commonly say "we are stressed," we refer to a psychological and physiological state of tension experienced when encountering difficulties or challenging environments. Prolonged exposure to stress can lead to physical ailments such as heart disease, ulcers, and hypertension, as well as psychological maladaptation such as insomnia, neurosis, and depression.
The dangers of stress are well known to modern society. When people experience bodily discomfort without knowing the exact cause, doctors often diagnose them with "stress-induced gastritis," for example. Whether the discomfort is truly caused by stress or by unknown factors that modern medicine cannot yet identify remains uncertain. However, it seems to be a universal truth that stress is harmful to the body.
2. Functional and Dysfunctional Stress
1) Functional Stress
When we think of stress, we often associate it with negativity. However, not all stress is negative. Stress is inherent in all living organisms due to its evolutionary significance. Organisms that did not experience stress could not respond to threats and ultimately faced extinction. Originally, the body's response to stress was beneficial for survival. In stress situations, the body activates the sympathetic nervous system, halting digestion, redirecting blood flow to the extremities, increasing heart rate, and activating the hypothalamus to prepare the body for immediate action. This response played a crucial role in increasing individual survival rates in situations such as facing predators in the past. Thus, the reason organisms experience stress is because they have evolved to do so. We cannot avoid stress, so it is important to manage it well and focus on its functional aspects rather than its negative effects. In other words, we should use stress to motivate and energize ourselves.
2) Dysfunctional Stress
However, as human civilization has advanced and lifestyles have become more complex, stress has become detrimental to the body. While moderate stress helped maintain tension in the body and prompted movement for survival, modern-day stress often triggers excessive bodily reactions even in situations where survival is not at stake. Furthermore, the severity of stress has increased over time due to the multitude of concerns faced by individuals. Modern life is filled with numerous stressors such as the need to acquire new knowledge, adhere to social norms, navigate generational, gender, multicultural, and political conflicts, and cope with the complexities of specialized work. For example, in the context of the workplace, although the stresses of modern employment may be psychologically taxing, they rarely pose a threat to one's life. Nevertheless, the body reacts to stress as it is evolutionarily programmed to do so, resulting in physical fatigue and exhaustion.
3. Stress in My Current Situations
1) Family
Home is where people are born and raised. It's where one can feel most comfortable. However, even in the home, stress exists. The weight of being the eldest, the roles of father and mother, the pressure of meeting expectations as a child, and even squabbles over trivial matters like who should cook are all sources of stress.
As the eldest in my family with one younger sibling, I feel a subconscious sense of responsibility. Growing up in Korean society, phrases like "take care of your parents well and look after your sibling" were ingrained in me. While I willingly fulfill these duties, they occasionally become burdensome amidst the weariness of daily life. It's something I may understand intellectually but struggle to reconcile emotionally.
2) Workplace
Even in part-time jobs, stress is inevitable. Although I haven't experienced full-time employment yet, I perceive less stress compared to academic pressures.
The stress at work typically stems from differences in work styles with colleagues. Fortunately, I maintain a good relationship with my superiors. However, working with certain colleagues can be challenging, and sometimes I feel that I would rather work alone despite the additional workload.
3) Academics
The stress from academics is undoubtedly significant. Spending hours on assignments, attending classes, or even listening to online lectures feels exhausting. I eagerly anticipate becoming a full-time employee and earning a salary to live independently. However, seasoned individuals often warn that entering society is akin to entering a jungle.
Studying is the primary duty of a student, so it's natural to feel stressed. Although hobbies and leisure activities can be enjoyable, they become tiresome when approached as obligations. Similarly, academic pursuits feel draining. I struggle to understand why I must learn certain things and find it challenging to stay engaged during lectures. Nonetheless, this assignment has provided some clarity and prompted me to reflect on my circumstances.
4. My Stress Coping Mechanisms
1) Eating Delicious Food
When facing difficult or frustrating situations, I turn to food. Even foods I wouldn't normally indulge in seem to beckon me when I'm stressed. So, I open a food delivery app and order the dishes I've been craving. After eating to my heart's content and taking a short nap, I usually feel a bit better.
Many people turn to binge eating when stressed, and there's a scientific reason behind it. Craving for sweets is common because sugar boosts mood and provides immediate nutrients to the brain, aiding in problem-solving. In Korean culture, there's a preference for spicy food, which releases heat, lowering body temperature through sweat.
2) Drawing
I don't have a particular hobby, but I occasionally draw on a piece of paper. Although I'm not formally trained in art, I seem to have some talent. If I didn't, I wouldn't find enjoyment in admiring my finished drawings. Drawing requires concentration and meticulous strokes, allowing me to forget about my worries and focus entirely on the task at hand. Afterward, I feel a sense of relief.
3) Sleeping
When feeling stressed and upset, I come home, set aside everything, and lie down. Eventually, I drift off to sleep. Upon waking up, I often realize that the issue wasn't as significant as I thought. Having experienced this several times, I've developed a habit of consciously seeking rest. Sleep gives my body and mind a break, allowing me to objectively assess the cause of stress. Sleeping on it helps me maintain a level-headed perspective, and solutions often become apparent or my mind feels more at ease after some time.
Ⅲ. Conclusion
Stress is inevitable as long as humans exist. It's likely the same for all living beings with senses and emotions. Whether living alone or in a community, stress in various forms is unavoidable. Just as emotions fluctuate, stress, regardless of its magnitude, cannot be completely avoided. What's crucial is not avoiding stress altogether but managing it effectively.
This assignment has provided me with insights into my current situation and personality. Reflecting on these aspects has given me the opportunity to contemplate how to manage the stressors I encounter. If we can't escape stress, there's a saying that suggests embracing it. Considering stress as a constant companion and learning to manage it effectively can turn it into a source of motivation.
