Stress is a natural response to any demand or challenge that requires physical, mental, or emotional effort. It is a state of physiological and psychological arousal that prepares the body to respond to a perceived threat or challenge, commonly referred to as the “fight or flight” response.

While stress can be a normal and healthy response to short-term challenges, such as a deadline or a difficult conversation, chronic or excessive stress can have negative effects on both physical and mental health. Prolonged stress can lead to a range of physical symptoms such as headaches, muscle tension, fatigue, and gastrointestinal problems. It can also contribute to mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, and burnout.

Stress can be caused by a variety of factors, including work or school demands, relationship problems, financial stressors, major life changes, and traumatic events. Learning how to manage stress effectively, through techniques such as relaxation exercises, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and stress-reduction techniques, can help individuals cope with stress and prevent its negative effects on health and well-being.