Stress — Is It Helpful or Harmful?
Stress is the body's way of dealing with pressure. Different situations, challenges and life events will all cause a certain amount of stress. It may occur when trying something new, or when something unexpected happens. In the height of the stress reaction, it can cause us to question our own ability and may make us feel out of control.
Often when people speak of stress it's done in a negative way.
- It's too hard.
- It's too much.
- I don't want to do it.
- I can't do this.
It's common for people to consider stress to be harmful and believe it shouldn't form part of everyday life. This is simply not the case — stress is necessary for several reasons.
- In danger, stress will keep you alert.
- Stress focuses the senses.
- Short-term stress can strengthen the immune system.
- Stress boosts memory.
A small amount of stress is expected in response to change, especially when taken outside of our comfort zone. For instance, starting a new school, taking exams, being in a school show, or representing the school at a sports event.
The important thing is to ensure that stress levels do not rise too high and start affecting daily living, resulting in reduced functioning at school, home, and around friends.
When stress levels remain high over a period of time, this is when it becomes harmful.
Prolonged high stress could lead to:
- A weakened immune system.
- An increase in blood pressure.
- An increase in the hormone adrenaline, which is harmful to the heart over extended time.
- Increased fatigue.
- Increased chances of depression and anxiety.
Maintaining a healthy level of stress is the fine balance between positive useful stress and harmfully high levels of stress.
In summary, stress is both helpful and harmful. As parents, guardians, and children's champions, we have the perfect opportunity to coach children to understand their own stress levels — so they can learn how to deal with stressful life events in a controlled and appropriate manner.
