WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN STRESS AND CRITICAL STRESS.

 

By Chaplain Robert A. Crutchfield

A life without stress as you know is very hard to find. However there is no one kind of stress, and different ways to deal with each kind exist. A good place to start is by understanding the difference between stress (which includes minor everyday stress,) and critical stress which can be more severe, but less long lasting. There also is a lot of overlap between the two, so they can not be seen as mutually exclusive.

Let's start with a simple definition of each,

STRESS- This is the more general category of the two, and include the normal stressors of everyday life. This can include family challenges, bad traffic, a grumpy boss and many other things. General stress can often be resolved by the one experiencing symptoms. General stress can is also more likely to be an ongoing or recurring challenge. The challenge with recurring is you may be returning to the source of the trigger. If this is the case, any relief may be temporary.

CRITICAL STRESS- An intense overwhelming response events often requiring intervention. This kind of stress can often be tied to a single event or series of events. Things from combat to loss of a loved one would fit this description. However it can also result from general stress that is not effectively treated.

Now I want to explore how symptoms of the two can be different.

Stress – can present itself as fatigue, muscle tension, sleep disturbances, mood swings etc.

Critical Stress- Often presents itself through symptoms such as hyperventilation, severe chest pain, tremors etc.

Common triggers leading two each of these two types can also vary.

Stress: Triggers for this more general type may include, work deadlines, family responsibilities, or financial concerns among others.

Critical Stress- Common triggers for this type can include, Tragic Events, Major Loss, or life-threatening conditions.

Finally, I want to compare the way management of the two conditions can differ. An important point here is in many cases pursuing the wrong treatment can be more dangerous than no treatment!

Stress- Helpful strategies here include, relaxation techniques, time management, physical exercise, or social support.

Critical Stress- Recovery from this type is more likely to require some level of professional assistance.

Helpful strategies range from therapy to crisis intervention, or prescribed medication. And more.

One key thing to remember with both is that they are a normal reaction to abnormal circumstances. Stress of all kinds is your mind and body struggling with situations that are more than it can handle. So don't stress yourself more by trying to make it you fault!

DISCLAIMER: THIS ARTICLE IS WRITTEN FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY, NOTHING WITHIN IT IS TO BE CONSIDERED MEDICAL ADVICE FOR A SPECIFIC PERSON'S CIRCUMSTANCES. If experiencing symptoms, please seek competent professional help !