Stress is a concept that has become both increasingly popularized and misunderstood in society. Today we often think about how ‘stressed’ we are, many on a daily basis. This is especially interesting when we consider that as life has become easier, at least from a materialistic standpoint, rates of depression and anxiety in our culture have risen.
It is true that living with too many demands in life can be harmful to our physical and emotional health. But it is equally true that when we believe difficult circumstances are an unnatural part of life, we only set ourselves up for increased fear and sorrow.
Hans Selye, the scientist who discovered how stress operates in the mind and body nearly a century ago, never intended for it morph into the now common idea that all stress is ‘bad’ for us. Yet that’s precisely what has occurred, driven by three particular social changes in the last half-century.
This little guide is a ‘back to the basics’ kind of field manual written for students, but is generally for all ages. By rethinking the proper role that stress plays in our lives, we will be better positioned not only to deal with life’s challenges, but to embrace all seasons as a part of our journey while on earth.
About the author
William J. Elenchin is an Associate Professor of Sociology at St. Bonaventure University, New York. He is the author of Hidden Courage: Reconnecting Faith and Character with Mental Wellness.
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