Causes & Consequences of Stress

Stress is defined as a physiological response to events or circumstances that presents a physical or emotional threat to the person experiencing it. Some may also experience anxiety when feeling stressed. Stress is a very common emotion for many people, and they experience it for many different types of reasons.

School

• Many people get stressed because of homework and other obligations from their classes. This may include major projects or tests. Stress is magnified when a person does not get enough exercise or sleep.

Family

• Family obligations and daily routines around the house may also cause stress. A fight with a spouse or a child can cause high stress levels. Additionally, other household conflicts may cause stress. For example, a mother may become stressed when her husband does not pick up after himself or never finishes chores he promises to do.

Work

• Work is a popular source of stress for many people. Projects, deadlines, meetings, presentations and demanding co-workers or supervisors may make many people feel stressed.

Decreased Health

• Stress has been shown to have negative effects on a person's overall health, including a lowered immune system or trouble sleeping.

Bad Reactions

• Stress may cause other negative consequences, such as adverse reactions to certain high-stress situations, including anger, anxiety, sadness or an emotional breakdown.