Stress can be defined in different ways. Some people find they can cope well under stress, as a bit of pressure can often be a great motivator. But if you’re finding that you’re constantly stressed out, it’ll begin affecting you in many negative ways. Essentially, stress is the ‘fight or flight’ response that occurs in the body when there’s a perceived threat or dangerous situation. It’s an inbuilt protective response that can help you stay alert, focused, energetic, and in emergency situations, it can give you additional strength and snap-decision-making skills that might just save your life. However, chronic stress can be very detrimental to your health. Stress raises levels of hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which can make you increasingly vulnerable to illness if experienced long term.

It can suppress your immune system, upset the digestive tract, increase the risk of heart attack and stroke, and increase the speed of aging. Health problems include depression, anxiety, chronic pain, sleep problems, skin conditions, weight problems, and cognitive issues. Many things can cause stress, but it’s important to realize what is worth stressing about and what isn’t. Many external life factors like work, school or relationship difficulties can make it seem like the weight of the world is on your shoulders, but there are things you can do to ensure you stay on top of it all. A supportive network of loved ones, a positive outlook, and the ability to confront and identify any issues and your emotional responses to them can make it much easier to handle any stress.