Stressor

Any situation or event that causes a state of imbalance in your feeling of wellbeing or your perception of your position in life is known as a stressor. Stressors have the tendency to push the limits of an individual’s resources making him/her feel inadequate and helpless. When a person is faced with a stressor or a need of dealing with stress, certain psychological as well as physiological reactions are triggered in the body and mind. While some of the responses are great for personal development, they may also have a harmful effect on the person’s body and mind.

Determining  A Stressor

When it comes to determining a stressor, one must realize that the idea of stressors is a rather subjective and abstract one and it’s best to know some eustress examples. This means that certain event or situation that imposes stress on a certain individual may not have the same effect on the other. For example, to handle multiple calls while reading files and typing mails can act as a stressor to anyone new to a job. On the other hand, a seasoned veteran who has been on the job for long does not perceive these situations as stressful because they are well attuned to handling these situations.

In order to manage stress, the importance of knowing your stressors is of top priority. Knowing your stressors may not be as easy as it sounds since we usually lose control of all rational thought when faced with a stressful situation. However, the best way to properly manage stress is by knowing your stressors and acting on them in the best possible manner.

Internal Stressors

While most stressor information points to the fact that stressors are usually external in nature, there are also several internal stressors that can have an equally damaging effect on your mind and body. Also called emotional stressors, some of these internal stressors include fear, anxiety, panic etc. The most common example of internal stressors is the tendency of some people to worry too much about the results of an exam or job interview. Since not all people face stress in this area, qualifying these situations as stressors is merely a matter of personality traits. According to stressor information, though the amount of internal stress faced by individuals varies from person to person, the effects on the body and mind are same to a great degree.

External Stressors

Any source of stress that lies outside of the individual’s mind and is created by external factors is known as an external stressor. Most stressor information will point to the fact that these external stressors are situations one has no control over. Anything from family pressure, relationship problems, job pressure or financial struggles can act as external stressors. Factors as simple as a hectic work schedule including erratic work timings and a temperamental boss can be a detrimental external stressor. Again, sudden change in lifestyle or habits with maladjustment is also a major source of stress to many. Something as simple as shifting residence or marriage can act as an undeniable source of stress.
Either way, irrespective of what kind of stress you face, it is very important to identify it before you can think of dealing with it. Identifying stressors is the first step to coping with stress in life.