There are many myths about stress. Some of them based on personal experiences and some based  on everyday life expectations. However, dangerous stress myths can make our life more complicated than usual. Here are our top five stress myths.

Let’s talk about five common stress myths

Stress is unavoidable

This is a fatalist concept and one that is not true. The key to avoiding stress is to know your stress trigger. Become aware of events, people or experiences that trigger your strong stress response. Write them down. Discuss them with your friend or partner so you can get support. Either avoid these triggers or learn how to manage your stress by learning stress reduction practices so you can learn how to become stress resilient.

Stress and anxiety are the same

Stress and anxiety are not the same thing. Stress is a response to a threat. Stress is acute, in a short-term event, or it is chronic, a long-term situation. Anxiety is your response to chronic, long term stress. Anxiety is a psychological disorder. This is when you worry all the time, can’t think clearly or sleep. Anxiety is like a psychological cancer eating at your sense of serenity and confidence.

Stress is a positive driver for success

There is negative stress and positive stress. Negative stress, when you experience fight or flight, physical or mental problems, is not a motivator. When you can look forward to an event or challenge we call this eustress which is good stress. This is a good motivator, but negative chronic stress is a serious health concern.

Drinks will help your stress

The facts are drinking actually fuels your stress. Alcohol stimulates the production of cortisol, the stress hormone.

Stress is the same for everyone

Each of us experiences stress differently. About half of your stress response is inherited and the other is dependent on your past and present environment. Some people are more stress resilient than others. Individuals may get physical symptoms such as headaches, insomnia, GI problems or chronic pain. Others may have psychological symptoms such as anger, fear, worry, volatility or withdrawal.