STRESS AWARENESS
Dismissing Common Myths About Stress
Stress is a normal part of life—neither wholly good nor entirely bad. Yet, many misconceptions prevent us from handling it effectively. Let’s thoughtfully unpack and correct some of the most persistent myths:
Myth 1: “All stress is bad.”
Reality: Stress comes in two forms. Eustress (positive stress) fuels growth, creativity, and resilience—think of the surge before a challenge. Distress (negative stress) arises from overwhelming, chronic pressure. Understanding the difference is key.
Myth 2: “Stress must be eliminated.”
Reality: Trying to live completely stress-free is neither realistic nor desirable. Stress signals that something matters. Instead of avoidance, the goal is management—learning to ride the waves and recover between them.
Myth 3: “A good life means no stress.”
Reality: A fulfilling life includes challenges. Whether it’s building a career or nurturing relationships, growth generally involves stress. It’s not the absence of stress, but our ability to bounce back, that defines well-being.
Myth 4: “Less stress is always better.”
Reality: Too little stimulation can lead to stagnation. Like seasoning in a dish, an optimal stress level energizes us—but too much or too little diminishes performance.
Myth 5: “If you try hard enough, you’ll adapt to any stress.”
Reality: Adaptation depends on more than effort—it involves mindset, resources, perception, and recovery. Recognizing when a situation exceeds one’s limits is not failure—it’s wisdom.
Myth 6: “Stress sensitivity is in your genes.”
Reality: Genetic predisposition influences stress, but it doesn’t determine your fate. Self-awareness and healthy coping strategies—mindfulness, social support, reframing—can reshape your response.
Myth 7: “Stress is only harmful.”
Reality: Short-term stress can enhance cognition, immunity, and motivation. Problems begin when stress becomes chronic and recovery is neglected.
Myth 8: “Exercise drains mental energy.”
Reality: The opposite is true—physical activity reduces stress hormones, releases endorphins, and restores mental clarity. It’s a proven resilience booster.
Myth 9: “Meditation is cultish.”
Reality: Modern mindfulness practices are evidence-based, and widely used across healthcare, education, and corporate settings. They’re tools for mental balance.
Myth 10: “Stress affects only adults.”
Reality: Children and teens experience stress too—academic, social, familial. Early emotional education and coping strategies foster greater resilience later in life.
✅ Final Takeaway
- Stress isn’t the enemy—it’s a signal.
- Short-term stress can inspire growth and sharpen your focus.
- Chronic stress, however, can erode health and impede progress.
- The goal is resilient balance: harness the energizing aspects, manage escalation, and prioritize recovery.
WHAT CAN YOU DO:
- Reflect daily: where do your stressors lie?
- Add recovery: a mindful moment, a walk, a conversation.
- Reframe stress: challenge transforms, overwhelm destroys.
- Build a personalized stress toolkit: movement, self-talk, community, mindfulness.
Stress is neither a flaw nor a foe—it’s part of the journey. With intention and self-care, you can navigate it wisely and confidently.
Saovanee (Bigg) Noppaprach, PhD C.P., Counseling Psychologist
