Is stress good or bad?

Stress is the body's natural response to challenges or difficult situations.

Whenever you begin an important task, your body experiences some degree of stress, even if you are not consciously aware of it.

When maintained at a moderate level, stress can actually:

• Improve your focus
• Increase your motivation
• Enhance your performance

This is known as positive stress (eustress).

However, if stress becomes excessive, you may feel overwhelmed and unable to perform effectively. This is known as acute stress.

Some people experience repeated episodes of stress over a long period, even without an immediate trigger. This is referred to as chronic stress.

Health Effects of Chronic Stress

High stress levels have been associated with:

• Gastric ulcers and gastritis
• Asthma
• Skin conditions
• Heart disease
• Certain cancers
• Depression and other mental health disorders
• Sleep disturbances
• Reduced sexual desire

How Does Stress Feel?

Stress can cause:

• Anxiety, sadness, depression, and emotional overreaction
• Difficulty concentrating and making decisions
• Memory problems
• Palpitations, shortness of breath, and nausea
• Difficulty sleeping
• Increased irritability
• Nail biting and other nervous habits

If these symptoms sound familiar, you've probably experienced stress before.