Stress is a normal physical response to events that make you feel threatened or upset your balance in some way. Modern life is full of hassles, deadlines, frustrations, and demands. For many people, stress is so commonplace that it has become a way of life but for others it requires more attention and support. Everyone reacts differently to stress, and some people may have a higher threshold than others. Some stress can be positive. A moderate level of stress can motivate us and make us perform better and more alert. Stressful situations can also be exhilarating and some people actually thrive on the excitement that comes with dangerous sports or other high-risk activities. But stress is only healthy if it is short-lived. Excessive or prolonged stress can lead to illness and physical and emotional exhaustion.
Read the NHS self-help guide to Stress