Family, School, Work, Relationships, Health, Social Environment, Physical Environment, and Survival: Making a Living
Funded by Ontario Women’s Health Council Copyright ©2002

Stress is the response of our body and mind to “CHANGE”. Change is the going from one thing, form, phase, place or state to another. Change is the natural part of living.

Stressors are the ever-present real, anticipated, unexpected, imagined element objects, events and circumstances that bring about change

Anticipated and desired change is often considered positive stressors. Positive stressors bring challenges but also motivation and energy (e.g. a planned celebration or vacation).

Unexpected, undesired or forced change is considered negative. Negative stressors bring worries, anger and grief (e.g. a job transfer, or the loss of a loved one).

Stressors can be related to:

1. Our physical body (e.g. a viral infection, an injury or overwork);
   Our mind (e.g. perceived danger or excitement);


2. Our emotions (e.g. argument, conflicts)


3. Our environment (e.g. high noise level, extreme heat or extreme cold); and
4. Situational (e.g. being chased by a bear, a job change or migration).

The impact of stress on our health is dependent on how we perceive or react to the stressors. A specific stressor may be considered positive to some people but negative to others (e.g. public speaking or air travel).

Change is unavoidable. A balance of change and constancy contributes to harmony & well-being.