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In medical
terms, stress refers to events that cause a reaction in the
body. These events may be physical (e.g. accident or injury)
or psychological (e.g. fear, grief, joy). For example, situations
perceived as dangerous or threatening may result in the body's
"fight-or-flight"
response, in which hormones
are released that prepare the body to face a threat or run away
from it.
It is generally believed that a certain amount of stress is
necessary for physical well-being. However, intense prolonged
stress can lead to psychological and medical problems. In the
brain, long-term stress can lead to memory
lapses and even to atrophy or death
of brain cells (neurons).
The amount of stress an individual can stand before suffering
such problems varies depending on the individual's health, environment
and psychological makeup.
Further reading:
Stress: Friend or Foe?
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