Skip to content

Kills Quote by Hans Selye

“Its not stress that kills us, it is our reaction to it.” quote by Hans Selye
Download Open image
“Its not stress that kills us, it is our reaction to it.”

Hans Selye

About This Quote

Source Book: Stress and the Stress Response, Hans Selye, 1956

Stress itself is neutral; it is our mental and emotional reaction that determines harm.

In simple terms: Stress is harmful only when we react poorly.

Key Takeaway

Manage reactions to stress.

Themes

stress psychology health coping reaction well‑being

Mood

concerned hopeful

Type

practical motivational

When to use this quote

  • workplace deadlines
  • personal conflicts
  • health crises
  • financial pressures

Key Concepts

cognitive appraisal physiological response resilience

Questions to Reflect On

  • What patterns in your reaction to stress can you change?
  • How can you reframe stress as a signal rather than a threat?
A Different Perspective

Sometimes the quote is unavoidable, making management difficult.

3.4 out of 5 (8 ratings)

More by Hans Selye

Explore all 37 Hans Selye quotes

More Kills quotes

Browse all 276 Kills quotes