Stress is simply a reaction to a stimulus that disturbs our physical or mental equilibrium. Learning to identify when you are under stress, what is stressing you can greatly improve both your mental and physical wellness.

This article provides you with some basic information on stress. It is not intended to take the place of advice from a physician or counselor, but it can be the first step in recognizing your stress

Top 10 causes of Stress

A 2014 study by American Psychological Association suggests the top 10 causes of stress in the US is

Money

Work

Personal Relationships

A family Member's Health Problems

Family Responsibilities

Housing Cost

The Economy

Job Stability

Personal Health Problems

Personal Safety

Immediate Effects of Stress

Physical

Release of stress hormone cortisol and adrenaline

Increased heart rate and blood pressure

Rapid Breathing

Tightened muscles

Headaches

Release of glucose and fat into bloodstream

Upset stomach

Loss of appetite or increase of appetite

Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much

Mental

Brief period of feeling more alert

Fight, flight or freeze response

Trouble focusing on other things

Emotional

Worrying, feeling anxious

Being Angry or irritable

Crying, feeling sad

Depressed and helpless

Out of control, impatient

Being forgetful

Long Term Effects of Stress

Chronic depression

Severe anxiety

Having trouble focusing

Being easily annoyed

Feeling hostile or angry

Greater risk of high cholesterol level, high blood pressure and risk of heart attack

Risk of stroke

Getting sick or headache frequently

Having trouble maintaining healthy body weight

Having poor personal relationships

Being less productive at work

Greater risk for alcohol or substance abuse

Having trouble focusing