Stress Resource Center

Stress

Stress is your body and mind's response to challenges or threats. While some stress is normal and can even be helpful, it can also cause physical and emotional health problems such as fatigue, anxiety, headaches, and insomnia. You can combat stress with self-care strategies like deep-breathing exercises and meditation.

FAQ

What is chronic stress?

Chronic stress is stress that you experience for a long time – weeks, months, or even years. It comes from living with difficult situations like a toxic workplace or relationship, long-term illness, or homelessness.

Stress affects many different parts of your body. Over time it can cause headaches, increase your risk for cardiovascular disease, weaken your immune system, lead to digestive problems like diarrhea and bloating, and even impact your fertility.

You can manage stress in many different ways, like getting regular exercise and plenty of sleep; practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing, yoga, and meditation; and taking time for yourself. It can also help to talk to a therapist.

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Resources
  1. Stress. World Health Organization. February 21, 2023.

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