Stress is how we react when we feel under pressure. It usually happens when we are in a situation that we don’t feel we can manage or control. If you feel stress as part of a bigger group, you may all experience it differently. This can happen even if the cause of your stress is the same.

Stress is a state of feeling overwhelmed or under pressure, mentally or emotionally. It’s our body’s natural response to a challenge or threat. This fight-or-flight reaction prepares us to deal with danger, like a surge of adrenaline giving us the energy to run from a bear.

There are actually two main types of stress: acute and chronic. Acute stress is short-lived, a burst of energy to deal with an immediate situation. For instance, you might feel a surge of stress before giving a presentation or during a close call while driving. This kind of stress can even be beneficial, sharpening our focus and helping us perform at our best.

Chronic stress, however, is the kind we worry about. This is when the pressure builds up and doesn’t go away. It can be caused by ongoing problems like financial difficulties, work deadlines, or relationship issues. Chronic stress can wear us down over time, affecting our mood, physical health, and ability to cope with daily life.

The signs of stress can vary from person to person, but some common ones include headaches, muscle tension, fatigue, difficulty sleeping, irritability, and anxiety. If you’re experiencing many of these for a prolonged period, it’s important to address the root cause of your stress and find healthy ways to manage it.