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Wednesday 28 March, 2007

EFFECTS OF STRESS ON BODY AND MIND

1. Psychophysiological Reactions. Stress stimuli secrete catecholamines through herve channel. Catecholamine has various effect on different organs :-

(a) Heart.

(i) Increase heart & pulse rate.

(ii) Reduce pumping efficiency of heart.

(b) Lungs. Fast and shallow breathing.

(c) Stomach and Intestine.

(i) Increase blood circulation.

(ii) Alteration in Motility.

(d) Nervous System.

(i) Excitement.

(ii) Stupor.

(iii) Vomiting.

(iv) Restlessness.

(v) Panic Attack.

(vi) Dryness of Mouth.

(vii) Sweating.

(viii) Tensing of Muscles.

(e) Metabolism.

(i) High oxygen consumption.

(ii) High Blood Sugar.

2. Reduced Physical and Mental Efficiency. Excess stress reduces mental and physical efficiency due to neuroral exhaustion. A person under stress develops loss of interest in his work, feels fatigued, has impaired decision making and difficulty in concentration.

3. Drug Addiction. People under stress for temporary relaxation turn to smoking, alcohol and other drugs. Drugs provide temporary relief from stress. Addiction represents a form of psychological dependence and indicate that the person has been unable to attain adequate satisfaction or self esteem in his or her personal life. The addiction to drugs and to alcohol are associated with a high risk of suicide. The underlying lack of self confidence is often so deep seated that prolonged treatment and rehabilitation is required. Drug users also rapidly develop tolerance to the psychoactive effect and various adverse health consequences.

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