Types of psychological stress

Types of Psychological Stress Based on Intensity

Psychological stress can be classified based on its intensity as follows:

• Acute Stress

This is the most common type. When mild, it can be beneficial as it motivates task completion and achievement.

• Episodic Acute Stress

This occurs when acute stress is frequent or recurring in an individual’s life. It leads to constant fatigue and a belief that things will never go right. This type has negative physical, psychological, and social impacts.

• Chronic Stress

This type is long-lasting, often due to exhausting work or an unhappy family life. If left unmanaged, it can lead to chronic illnesses such as heart disease and immune system issues.

Types of Psychological Stress Based on Nature of Impact

Stress can also be categorized based on the nature of its impact:

• Emotional Stress

This type is linked to various emotions, most notably:

• Anger
• Sadness
• Frustration
• Loss

• Cognitive Stress

This includes psychological stresses such as:

• Guilt
• Jealousy
• Mental overload
• Self-criticism
• Disconnection from self
• Disconnection from reality
• Self-loathing
• Anxiety
• Panic attacks

• Perceptual Stress

This relates to the following:

• Beliefs
• Roles a person plays in life
• One’s worldview

• Psychosocial Stress

This results from:

• Family issues, including those with parents, spouses, or children
• Lack of social support or dependable friends during tough times
• Loneliness and social isolation
• Job loss
• Bankruptcy

• Spiritual Stress

This includes:

• Conflict between a person’s work/environment and their beliefs
• Loss of meaning or value in one’s work or tasks

Tips for Managing Psychological Stress

The following tips help manage all types of psychological stress:

• Take Care of Your Physical Health

Maintaining physical health enhances your ability to cope with psychological stress and its physical and mental symptoms. Essential steps include:

1. Eating healthy food
2. Drinking enough water
3. Exercising regularly
4. Getting adequate sleep

• Practice Meditation

Meditation can be practiced anywhere and is highly effective for stress control. We remind you to download the Tawazon app to explore a wide range of meditations and podcasts, along with comprehensive info on different meditation styles.

• Write a List of Positive Aspects in Your Life

View your life from a positive perspective and make a list of things that bring you happiness and satisfaction.