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Stress and Illness Overview

• Stress is the process of appraising and responding to a threatening or challenging event.

Key Learning Targets

• Appraisal of an event affects stress reaction.

• Stressors are classified into three types: catastrophes, significant life changes, and daily hassles.

• Stress responses and adaptation vary among individuals.

• Stress increases vulnerability to diseases.

• Stress does not directly cause illness, but may contribute.

Types of Stressors

• Catastrophes: Unpredictable large-scale events causing significant emotional and physical health damage (e.g., natural disasters).

• Significant Life Changes: Major transitions such as death, divorce, job loss that impact health vulnerability.

• Daily Hassles: Everyday stressors including minor irritations and pressures that can accumulate over time.

Effects of Stress

• Short-lived or perceived challenges: Can mobilize immune responses, promote problem-solving and resilience.

• Extreme or prolonged stress: Leads to risky behaviors, health problems including increased mortality rates after traumatic events.

Impact of Interpretation

• Individual appraisal affects the stress experience and response effectiveness;

  • Example: Viewing a challenge as a threat can heighten stress.