Chronic stress--an approach to management in general practice

Stress is a word commonly used, but vaguely applied in the community. Stress occurs for a range of endogenous and extrinsic reasons, often unique to the individual, though there are some common elements.

This article aims to present background information on stress and provide an approach to managing a patient presenting with stress in the Australian general practice setting.

Stress or cognitive arousal can have positive effects on the individual, but excessive or chronic stress can negatively impact health. Stress seems to rise from a clash between a person's perception of events and their expectations. The difference between stress and anxiety is determined by the effect of chronic stress on the individual. Helping a patient to manage their stress relies on understanding the individual in their own circumstances, as well as good communication skills.