In fact, some stress is a necessary part of life that helps compel us into action, increasing our alertness and awareness. When we encounter a stress-creating stimulus, our body responds by secreting hormones that stimulate our nervous system and prepare us to move, or react. If the stimulus is mild or perceived as non-threatening, then there is little hormone release and we react in a healthy fashion. An example is, when we move to avoid an obstacle while walking. The body responds immediately, pouring out hormones, which result in increased heart rate, blood pressure and breathing, as well as sweaty palms and cool, clammy skin.
Stressful events can also trigger emotional feelings of anxiety, fear, insecurity and anger.
For most, brief stressful encounters are well tolerated. Prolonged stress, however, has been linked to many health problems including sleep disturbances, ulcers, high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke and depressed immune function. While the results are inconclusive, recent research suggests that excess stress may contribute to infertility and pregnancy risks. Because each of us finds different situations stressful, the optimal level of stress varies from person to person. A task that one person finds enjoyable can be highly stressful to another.