Stress is a mental and bodily reaction to difficult or dangerous circumstances, often manifesting as distress, annoyance, worry, or despair. When individuals encounter challenges, their bodies release hormones that trigger a "fight or flight" response. Persistent stress, however, can detrimentally impact both mental and physical health, potentially resulting in anxiety, depression, and other conditions.
Key indicators of stress include:
Recognizing stress and employing strategies like relaxation exercises, effective time allocation, and seeking assistance are vital for maintaining psychological health.