However, many of the reactions to stress are highly subjective. There are many diverse factors that contribute to the different ways individuals react to situations. Our life, age, physical constitution, temperament, personality, self-esteem, learning histories, and belief and expectation systems all contribute to our stress reactivity. Stress can be related to daily life, particular circumstances, a new situation, the process of communication, or relationships. Some people find their jobs, or their roles as students or leaders stressful, while others find their home life stressful.
Some people blame their stress on themselves, and the way they look, think, or behave.
Others blame their stress on outside pressures, such as family, society, or religion. People respond to stress in highly individualized ways. These responses can be physical, behavioral, emotional, and cognitive. The Stage of Exhaustion. In this initial stage the body mobilizes its defenses, the sympathetic nervous system is aroused, and adrenaline is released.