Everyone experiences stress, which is your body's physical and emotional response to new or challenging situations.1 This can occur when you face problems such as those related to work, school, health, and relationships. Feeling stress can be a normal coping response and can forge a healthy sense of our ability to solve problems. However, when the stress is long term, known as chronic stress, it can lead to worsening health problems.2
Stress can cause the following:
Feelings of fear, anger, sadness, worry, numbness, or frustration
Changes in appetite, energy, desires, and interests
Trouble concentrating and making decisions
Nightmares or problems sleeping
Physical reactions, such as headaches, body pains, stomach problems, or skin rashes
Worsening of chronic health problems and mental health conditions
Increased use of alcohol, drugs, and other substances
Learning to cope in a healthy way can help reduce your stress. Taking small steps in your daily life to manage stress can have a big impact. Everyone manages stress differently. You can find and manage what triggers your stress and the right combination of healthy techniques that work for you.