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What Are the Causes of Stress in Modern Society?

Stress is an unavoidable part of life for everyone. It can be caused by external or internal factors. Left unchecked, chronic stress can be extremely damaging to your health, exacerbating illnesses and causing physical imbalances. No matter what the cause, stress can always be managed by taking control of how you respond to it and making time for exercise and relaxation.

  1. Finances

    • In the unstable economy of the early 21st century, financial stress is at an all-time high. Surprisingly, the amount of your stress does not necessarily depend on the size of your wallet. "You can experience the same financial loss as another person but it's how you perceive that loss, how you've been able to cope with loss in your past and the accompanying anxiety that will dictate how much stress you experience," said Kathleen Gurney, CEO of Financial Psychology Corporation. To help deal with financial stress, Richard Sherman, a psychologist in private practice in Tarzana, California, suggests opening up about your situation. Sometimes it's easy to imagine no one else is going through what you're going through, which isn't true. By finding support and talking to people in similar situations, you'll be better able to cope with the strain.

    Work

    • "Chronic job strain can put both your physical and emotional health at risk," says Dr. Paul J. Rosch, the president of the American Institute of Stress. The UK's Health and Safety Executive recognizes six key stress factors at work, which include the demands of the job; autonomy; support or lack of support from co-workers and supervisors; relationships with colleagues; understanding of job responsibilities and notifications of changes in the workplace. Other factors that affect your stress level with work may include salary dissatisfaction, long work hours, low communication and lack of positive feedback from superiors. Short of changing careers, there's not a whole lot you can do to change the atmosphere at your job. However, communicating your needs to co-workers and supervisors can help reduce the stress.

    Separation and Divorce

    • Marital separation and divorce are two of the most difficult life events a person can go through. It is emotionally challenging, not only for the two people in the marriage but also their children, grandchildren, friends and other family members. There are many potential complications, including child custody and support, separation of assets and fights over money. It can be difficult for even the strongest of people. To help yourself cope with the stress of divorce or separation, PsychCentral.com recommends keeping a strong support network of close friends and family members to lean on or joining a support group for people who are going through the same thing.

    Internal Stress

    • Not all stress is a result of external or circumstantial causes. Some stress can be self-generated. According to the HelpGuide.org website, internal stress can be caused by negative thoughts, pessimism, low self-esteem, unrealistic expectations, perfectionism or refusing to accept change. This type of stress can be harder to deal with because it involves changing the way you think about life and yourself. Positive affirmations or regular therapy sessions can help you overcome pessimism and negative thoughts.

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