ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on stress by returning to the work of Hans Selye, who is rightly known as the “father of stress.” It discusses the differences between stress and strain as they apply to the daily lives. Selye's research gave us information about the chemical pathway, and Walter Cannon's work gave us the outline of the electrical pathway of the stress response. Underlying the stress syndrome are changes that are associated with both the electrical and chemical stress response. The major hormones and neurotransmitters of the stress system are beneficial modulators, but these same elements cause its malfunction, potentially leading to serious illness. During an acute stress response, the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal stimulates the immune response and arouses immunological memory for invaders. Stress management involves looking at the personal needs: support, intimacy, loving, caring, recreation, relaxation, joyful creativity, as well as spiritual concerns.
