The stress response, or “fight or flight” response is the emergency reaction system of the body.

According to some psychologists, there is basic difference in the way men and women respond to social stress: for men, it’s either “fight or flight” while for women it’s “tend and befriend.” Physiologist Walter Cannon – a pioneer of research on stress – argued in the 1930s that “fight-or-flight” is a universal …

Physiological Systems Involved in Stress Response:

• Nervous system.
• Endocrine system.
• Immune system.

Acute stress is short-term stress. Chronic stress is long-term stress.

Hall-Flavin, M.D. Stress is a normal psychological and physical reaction to positive or negative situations in your life, such as a new job or the death of a loved one. Stress itself isn’t abnormal or bad.

Exercise is therefore a simple and effective way to calm the nervous system. It not only uses the energy created in the body, it metabolises (breaks down) excess stress hormones. Lower levels of stress hormones mean a calmer body and mind.

A stressful situation — whether something environmental, such as a looming work deadline, or psychological, such as persistent worry about losing a job — can trigger a cascade of stress hormones that produce well-orchestrated physiological changes. A stressful incident can make the heart pound and breathing quicken.

Physical activity, meditation, yoga, massage, deep breathing and other relaxation techniques can help you manage stress. It doesn’t matter which relaxation technique you choose. What matters is refocusing your attention to something calming and increasing awareness of your body. Get enough sleep.

16 Simple Ways to Relieve Stress and Anxiety

1. Exercise. Exercise is one of the most important things you can do to combat stress.
2. Consider supplements. Several supplements promote stress and anxiety reduction.
3. Light a candle.
4. Reduce your caffeine intake.
5. Write it down.
6. Chew gum.
7. Spend time with friends and family.
8. Laugh.

Buspirone – This is a non-narcotic and non-addictive medication that works similarly to an SSRI, though it only affects one subtype of serotonin receptor within the brain, ultimately leading to fewer side effects.

Is there an effective herbal treatment for anxiety?

• Kava.
• Passion flower.
• Valerian.
• Chamomile.
• Lavender.
• Lemon balm.