What are the different forms of stress?

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First, what is stress?

Stress results from a set of psychological and physical reactions triggered by the body in response to external stress or aggression. It is a natural phenomenon that, under normal circumstances, lasts only a few moments or a few days.

  • Physical symptoms : muscle pain, palpitations, tremors, chest tightness, digestive problems, sleep disturbances, migraines or dizziness.
  • Psychological symptoms : anxiety, irritability, difficulty concentrating or orientation, decreased motivation.
  • Behavioral symptoms : isolation, increased consumption of harmful products (tobacco, alcohol, sugar), loss of appetite or hyperphagia.

When a stressor is prolonged, it is referred to as chronic stress , which can lead to various complications, including cardiovascular or mental ones.

The three phases of stress

Alarm phase

During this first phase, the body enters a state of alert. It secretes adrenaline to prepare the body to act or flee in the face of the threat (real or perceived).

  • Common manifestations : muscle tension, accelerated heart and respiratory rate, increased blood pressure.
  • Objective : to quickly mobilize the energy needed to deal with the danger

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    Resistance phase

    If the stressful situation continues, the body releases other hormones (cortisol, noradrenaline) in order to maintain an effective response.

    • Mechanism : energy intake increases to keep going.
    • As a result , once the threat is eliminated, the body regains its balance and normal metabolism.

    Exhaustion phase

    When stress persists for too long, the body struggles to regulate hormone secretion. This overproduction gradually depletes energy reserves.

    • Physical signs : sleep disturbances, digestive problems, headaches, intense fatigue.
    • Psychological signs : anxiety, irritability, nervousness, isolation.
    • Behavioral signs : absenteeism, excessive use of substances (tobacco, alcohol, sugars).
    • Risks : depression, nervous breakdown, burnout.

    What are the different phases of stress?

    The different forms of stress

    Acute stress

    Acute stress occurs on a one-off basis when an individual faces an exceptional and destabilizing event: aggression, major conflict, divorce, job loss, natural disaster, etc.

    • Positive role : it triggers an emergency reaction which allows for better management of the situation in the short term.
    • Duration : the symptoms (disturbed digestion, agitation, passing sadness…) usually disappear once the event is over.
    • Management :
      • Dietary supplements : Formulas enriched with plants (rhodiola, saffron, holy basil), vitamins (vitamin B6) and the amino acid GABA, such as the "anti-stress" gummies offered by Délicure , can help the body to relax.
      • CBD : Cannabidiol (CBD) is also known for its calming properties and can help reduce stress and anxiety. Délicure offers a range of CBD gummies and CBD oils made with pure, natural oil.

    Secondary trauma

    Secondary trauma refers to acute stress that recurs repeatedly, often in people repeatedly exposed to human suffering or distress (healthcare professionals, social workers, law enforcement, etc.).

    • Effects : severe anxiety, depression, loss of self-confidence, feelings of insecurity, isolation and sometimes paranoia.

    Chronic stress

    Chronic stress is characterized by continuous exposure to stressors, leading to a state of exhaustion over time. It often corresponds to the final phase (exhaustion phase) described above.

    • Major risks : cardiovascular, respiratory, musculoskeletal disorders, type 2 diabetes, depression.
    • Severity : If left untreated, chronic stress can lead to a profound deterioration in quality of life and, in the most extreme cases, to suicide.

    Burnout

    Burnout is a state of professional exhaustion linked to particularly trying working conditions: excessive workload, conflicts with superiors or colleagues, lack of recognition or support.

    • Symptoms : malaise, isolation, depression, addictions (alcohol, tobacco, food), intense fatigue.
    • Link with chronic stress : most burnouts result from untreated chronic stress.
    • Treatment : In cases of burnout or chronic stress, consulting a doctor or psychiatrist is essential in order to implement an appropriate therapeutic strategy (sick leave, psychotherapy, medication, etc.).

    CBD for stress relief

    CBD (cannabidiol) is a compound naturally present in hemp, known for its relaxing and anxiolytic properties. It can help combat stress and improve sleep quality.

    • Forms of consumption : gummies, sublingual oils, capsules, infusions.
    • Benefits :
      • Helps regulate mood and appetite.
      • Reduces anxiety and promotes a feeling of relaxation.
      • May help improve sleep quality.

    The solutions offered by Délicure

    1. Gummies »

      • Enriched with plants (rhodiola, saffron, holy basil) and the amino acid GABA.
      • They contain vitamin B6, essential for the proper functioning of the nervous system.

    2. CBD Gummies

      • Fun and practical, the promote rapid relaxation.

    3. CBD oils made with avocado oil

      • 100% pure and natural formula for better absorption.
      • THE They are ideal for regular or occasional consumption.

    To conclude :

    Stress, whether acute, chronic, or trauma-related, affects each individual differently. Understanding the mechanisms of stress and its various forms is essential to preventing burnout and preserving overall health.

    To cope with daily pressures, calm nerves and stress, adopting a healthy lifestyle (balanced diet, regular physical activity, sleep management) and allowing yourself moments of relaxation (meditation, yoga, hobbies) remain fundamental pillars. In case of persistent symptoms or psychological distress, do not hesitate to consult a healthcare professional.

    Finally, natural solutions such as CBD or herbal gummies can be interesting supplements for managing stress spikes and promoting better resilience in the face of life's challenges.