Toxic stress is a prolonged, intense activation of the body’s stress response system, especially when someone faces serious or repeated adversity without enough supportive, protective relationships or resources.
Examples could include ongoing abuse or neglect, exposure to violence, severe family instability, or other persistent hardships. Over time, toxic stress may affect mind development, learning, emotional regulation, immune function, and may be physical health: please consult with a Medical doctor.
Importantly, some say that stress itself may not always harmful, Low level short term stress may be normal and even helpful?
What makes stress potentially “toxic” may be its intensity, duration, and lack of adequate support or recovery.
Supportive relationships, a safer and more predictable environment, adequate sleep and physical activity, safe environment, and professional support when needed may help buffer the stress response and promote recovery.
Shervan K Shahhian
LIBERTY PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION 