An astonishing 92% of Hongkongers feel stressed, Cigna 360° Well-being Survey found.1 That certainly doesn’t sound good, but maybe coping with stress isn’t such a bad thing after all.
Daniela Kaufer, associate professor at UC Berkeley, conducted a study on stress and found that there’s such a thing as “good stress.”2
Types of stress
Our stress response helps us react in times of threat and learn from it. Kaufer’s study shows that moderate amounts of stress can actually hone our alertness, performance and memory.2
When exposed to a moderate, manageable amount of stress for a short period of time, stem cells are generated. These stem cells later become brain cells which lead to improved learning and memory. Examples of such positive stress include preparing for a public speech or an exam.2
Effects of stress on health
Can stress be good? The keyword here is “moderate.” If the stress gets too intense, it suppresses stem cell growth and the immune system. Extreme stress can also lead to post-traumatic stress disorder where people cannot let go of traumatic memories which is bad for health.2
Now that we have this knowledge, how do we cope with stress?
Feeling positive that you can handle tough times means you’re more likely to respond to stress better. Having friends and family to turn to during a crisis would also help. Another stress buster is physical exercise as it’s conducive to cell growth during stress.2
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