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Potential Causes of Stress

According to a 2007 "Stress in America" poll performed by the American Psychological Association, APA, it was found that one-third of the American population reported the experience of extreme levels of stress. While further polls have not been taken, APA has taken into consideration that many who experience stress today may be doing so in response to economic concerns. Stress can be caused by short- and long-term situations.

  1. Work and Finances

    • Job security, finances and debt concerns produce stress.

      According to APA's 2007 poll, 75 percent of Americans reported stress related to work and money. APA notes that in consideration of today's economy, these are still top stressors for many Americans. Considered long-6term stressors, job and financial concerns may be situations without immediate resolve.

    Relationships

    • Challenging relationships with a spouse, relatives or friends can produce stress.

      Marriage, divorce, challenging relationships and matters of raising children are listed by the APA as being causes of stress. These stessors can fall within the short- and long-term stress categories based on the time it takes you to resolve the stressful situation or learn to handle your stress at acceptable levels of control.

    Illness and Death

    • Death of a loved one can produce long-term stress.

      Illness and the death of a spouse or loved one can also produce stress. These stessors typically fall in the long-term category based on how long you are directly affected by the illness or death. The APA considers stress to be at a dangerous level when you can no longer live your life normally due to the stress.

    Short-Term Considerations

    • Driving in heavy traffic is a common short-term stressor.

      Short-term stress is stress caused by a situation that you consider being of short duration. Traffic, crowded checkout lines at the grocery store, or a child crying in a doctor's waiting room can cause stress that will dissipate once you have completed your journey, checked out of the store or been seen by the doctor. Other short-term stressors can include preparing for or taking a test, a job interview, the act of traveling or preparing for a big event such as a wedding, the common thread being that once the activity is completed, the stress related to it typically resolves.

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