The Surprising Benefits of Stress: Finding Growth in Challenges
(CNN) — "Stress is bad for your health" is a familiar mantra in today’s fast-paced society. Yet, emerging insights challenge this narrative, suggesting that certain types of stress may actually foster growth and improve our overall well-being. According to Dr. Sharon Bergquist, an expert in stress management and author of "The Stress Paradox," the right kind of stress can be crucial for resilience and health.
Stress, particularly when it becomes chronic and unyielding, is undoubtedly linked to various health problems. Dr. Bergquist, however, emphasizes that not all stress is created equal; the type of stress we encounter can significantly influence its effects on our health. During a recent discussion on the podcast Chasing Life, she remarked, “Yes, too much stress harms us, but not enough is actually just as harmful.”
This perspective resonates with the biblical principle found in James 1:2-4 (NIV), which states, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” The idea here is not merely to tolerate stress or trials but to recognize that they can lead to maturity and growth.
Dr. Bergquist’s childhood experiences during the Iranian Revolution, which led her to seek refuge in the United States, shaped her understanding of resilience through stress. She eventually thrived academically despite significant challenges, demonstrating that stress, when navigated wisely, can serve as a catalyst for personal growth.
So, what constitutes "good stress"? According to Dr. Bergquist, "good stress" occurs when we challenge ourselves just beyond our comfort zones without overwhelming ourselves. This challenge can trigger the release of beneficial neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin, while simultaneously mitigating the harmful effects of cortisol often linked with chronic stress.
The balance lies in the understanding that periods of recovery are equally as essential as the stressors we face. “To gain benefits from stress, you have to make time for rest and recovery,” Dr. Bergquist advises. This notion mirrors Jesus’s invitation in Matthew 11:28 (NIV): “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Moments of respite are crucial for allowing our bodies and minds to rebuild and fortify themselves against future pressures.
As we reflect on these insights, it’s essential to consider how we can introduce "good stress" into our lives. Dr. Bergquist offers several practical tips: challenge yourself to step outside your comfort zone; align stressors with your values; and make time for recovery. These practices echo the biblical principle of living with intention and purpose, encouraging us to seek challenges that cultivate our spiritual and personal growth.
In light of this perspective, we are invited to embrace stress not as an enemy, but as a potential ally that, when handled thoughtfully, can lead us toward resilience and deeper spiritual understanding. Just as physical muscles strengthen from stress, so too can our faith muscles grow from the challenges we face, ultimately leading us closer to recognizing our capabilities and the divine support available to us.
As you contemplate your experiences with stress, remember 2 Corinthians 12:9 (NIV): “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Consider how the challenges you face today could be shaping you for tomorrow, and trust that through faith and perseverance, you can emerge stronger on the other side.
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