What Is Stress?
Stress is a natural part of everyday life. Whether it’s caused by traffic, tight deadlines, health concerns, or relationship difficulties, stressors are everywhere. Even positive life changes—like getting married, receiving a job promotion, or having a baby—can lead to increased tension. While some individuals manage life’s demands with ease, others feel overwhelmed by even minor stressors. When day-to-day pressure becomes persistent or starts to interfere with your wellbeing, it may be a sign of chronic stress that needs professional attention.
Who Is Affected by Stress?
Stress is impacting Americans more than ever. According to a 2019 Gallup Poll, the U.S. reported record highs in daily stress, worry, and anger. Key findings revealed:
55% of adults experienced high stress the day before
45% reported feeling excessive worry
22% said they felt anger
Stress does not discriminate—it affects children, teens, adults, and seniors alike.
Data from the American Institute of Stress shows:
77% of people report physical symptoms due to stress
73% experience psychological effects
33% feel they are under extreme stress
48% say their stress has increased in the past five years
Common Symptoms of Stress
Stress can show up in multiple ways—physical, emotional, cognitive, and behavioral. Understanding how stress manifests can help determine whether you may need support.
Physical Symptoms:
Headaches or migraines
Muscle stiffness or pain
Constant fatigue
Digestive issues (nausea, constipation, or diarrhea)
Chest discomfort
Appetite changes
Dizziness or faintness
Low libido
Teeth grinding or jaw tension
Increased frequency of colds or illness
Psychological and Cognitive Symptoms:
Anxiety or nervousness
Irritability or mood swings
Lack of focus or concentration
Memory lapses
Low energy or motivation
Feeling hopeless or overwhelmed
Poor decision-making or judgment
Loneliness or sadness
Persistent negative thoughts
Behavioral Symptoms:
Withdrawing socially
Insomnia or disrupted sleep
Overeating or undereating
Increased use of alcohol or drugs
Smoking more frequently
Angry outbursts or temper issues
Nervous habits like nail-biting or fidgeting
What Causes Stress?
Stress can stem from a wide range of experiences. According to the Holmes-Rahe Stress Scale, common high-stress events include:
Loss of a spouse or loved one
Divorce or separation
Serious personal illness or injury
Job loss
Financial strain or retirement
Legal trouble or imprisonment
Marriage difficulties
Stress can also contribute to or worsen several mental health conditions, such as:
Anxiety disorders
Depression
Anger management issues
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
Memory impairments
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Psychosis
How the Brain and Body React to Stress
The body’s natural reaction to danger—known as the fight-or-flight response—is activated during stressful situations. This biological survival mechanism is triggered by:
The amygdala—processes emotional signals and senses danger
The hypothalamus and pituitary gland—release ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone)
The adrenal glands—release stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline
These changes prepare the body for quick action and involve several physiological effects:
Eyes: Pupil dilation; peripheral vision narrows
Ears: Hearing becomes less sensitive
Skin: Reduced blood flow to skin; chills or goosebumps
Lungs: Faster, shallower breathing
Heart: Increased heart rate and blood pressure
Muscles: Tense muscles and trembling
Digestion: Slows down or pauses
Immune system: Temporarily suppressed
Focus: Becomes limited to the perceived threat
Recognizing the Need for Help
- If you find that several of the symptoms listed above are interfering with your daily life or relationships, it may be time to seek stress management support. Chronic stress doesn’t just affect your mood—it can impair brain function, damage your immune system, and contribute to serious health issues. Early intervention and lifestyle changes—such as relaxation techniques, therapy, and proper sleep—can significantly improve your resilience and quality of life.