When faced with danger, some of the first stress reactions are a rise in blood pressure, quicker breathing and heart beat, and dilated pupils. Sight and hearing become more alert. This reaction is an instinctive response that protects us from threats to survival. The body is still aroused but is adapting to the change. However, if high levels of stress continue, the energy to adapt runs out.
Exhaustion occurs, causing damage to the person's physical and emotional well-being.
Entire families may experience distress from tensions and pressures on the family to change. Surprising as it seems, some stress has positive outcomes. It can stimulate a scientist's thinking or a composer's creative energy. It can give many people the energy to solve problems and to finish hard work. Often, however, our lives are filled with many demands that continue over a long period of time.