question_answer

Explain stress according to General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS) mode, giving examples from everyday life. Describe any one strategy for coping with stress.

Or

Explain the effect of stress on the immune system. How social support can lead to positive health and well-being? Discuss.

Answer:

Stress can cause illness by impairing the workings of the immune system. The immune system guards the body against attackers, both from within and outside. Psychoneuroimmunology focuses on the links between the mind, the brain and the immune system. It studies the effects of stress on the immune system. How does the immune system works? The white blood cells (leucocytes) within the immune system identify and destroy- foreign bodies (antigens) such as viruses. It also leads to the production or antibodies. There are several kinds of 'white blood cells or leucocytes within the immune system, including T cells; B cells and natural killer cells. T cells destroy invaders, and T-helper cell increases immunological activity. It is these T-helper cells that are attacked by the Human. Immune Deficiency Virus (HIV), the virus causing Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). Blood cells produce antibodies. Natural killer cells are involved in the fight against both viruses and tumours.

Stress can affect natural killer ceil cytotoxicity, which is or major importance in the defence against various infections and cancer. Reduced levels of natural killer cell cytotoxicity have been found in people who are highly stressed, including students facing important examinations, bereaved persons and those who are severely depressed. Studies reveal that immune functioning is better in individuals receiving social support. Also, changes in the immune system will have more effects on health among those whose immune systems are already weakened.

The diagram depicts this sequence comprising negative emotions, release of stress hormones which leads to weakening of the immune system, thereby affecting mental and physical health.

Psychological stress is accompanied by negative emotions and associated behaviours, including depression, hostility, anger and aggression. Negative emotion states are of particular concern to the study of effects of stress on health. The incidence of psychological disorders, such as panic attacks and obsessive behaviour increases with the buildup of long-term stress. Worries can reach such a level that they surface as a frightening, painful physical sensation, which can be mistaken for a heart attack. People under prolonged stress are more prone to irrational fears, mood swings and phobias and may experience fits of depression, anger and irritability. These negative emotions appear to be related to the function of the immune system.