Nicky, This is a tough subject because stress means different things to different people. And the body is so complex, like Alice said.

There are two issues here. One is "how" stress affects your immune system. The other is what can you do to reduce stress. I can't do a damn thing about the how - or why - stress affects me. I can only do something about how I handle the stress I have.

What has helped me a lot is to get more coping skills. I was already pretty good at handling "regular" stress but sought out a psychologist to help more.

Have you ever had anyone say to you "so" or "get over it" or "that's not so bad?" They perceive it something isn't bad or stressful but it IS for you. Perception is such a strong thing (and one step away from prejudice). Is it how we see things that makes us stressed or the actual thing. I think it can be both. Losing your job is sublimely stressful but some people just see it as an opportunity to get a better one. I think they're in denial (about bills, food, etc.).

I think "stress" is often good for us. Kind of like how getting sick as a child is good for the immune system. It's not fun to be sick but then you get some resistance to it in the future. When you pamper the body too much, that's not good either. Like anti-bacterial soaps implicated in creating "super" bugs like MRSA.

Does someone who sees bacteria, for example, as a HUGE enemy make their immune system worse? While someone who doesn't give it another thought might be better off? Is it all about perception? The more centered I become (ha, that's actually funny), the better I am at coping with stress coming at me. A few laughs don't hurt either.

I suppose some people would say that anger is a negative emotion. I disagree. You need balance in life. And sometimes we are feeling negative. Should we ignore those feelings? I personally don't think so. Our emotions "tell" us things we should listen to!!!

Going on a job interview or having a first date can cause stress. Is that "good" stress?

Having said that, however, PTSD is a different kind of stress that needs serious care. I am learning that it can change without my permission, like giving me sudden attacks of anger. A lovely new symptom. Traumas can create a unique kind of stress that I believe is highly destructive and often can't be "controlled" until a person gets specific care.

Oops, droning on again. Anyway, whatever works for you to reduce stress is the important thing. Or reduce bad stress and keep the good?

Annie