How is stress defined in psychological terms?

Stress, in psychological terms, is best defined as a pattern of physical and psychological responses to a threatening event. This definition captures the comprehensive nature of stress as it involves both the psychological aspects, such as anxiety and emotional reactions, as well as the physiological responses, like heightened heart rate or sweating, that occur when faced with a perceived threat.

Understanding stress in this way acknowledges that it is not solely a mental or physical phenomenon; rather, it encompasses a complete interaction of both dimensions in response to stressors. This dual perspective highlights how stress can affect a person's overall well-being, influencing both mental health and physical health. This comprehensive understanding is critical for effectively addressing stress in therapeutic and everyday contexts.