Stress is a powerful response that occurs when a person experiences a stressor and the body reacts by releasing stress hormones, including cortisol and adrenaline, according to Helpguide.org. While stress is not always a negative emotion, stress that occurs on a regular basis can result in a number of long-term health problems, including heart disease, sleep disorders, depression or obesity. By identifying the most common forms of stress, you can develop coping mechanisms that help you deal with stressors.
Your Job
According to a poll from LifeCare, Inc., a national workforce productivity measurement company, Americans rank their job as the biggest source of stress in their lives. This is even more so than family concerns. Several pressures and stress exist in the workplace. These include the fear of losing a job, pressure to perform well at a job and burnout associated with working long hours, according to The American Institute of Stress. As Americans begin to work longer and harder, health problems can arise that range from back pain and fatigue to persistent difficulty sleeping.
Life Changes
Several life events can result in added stress. Whether from loss of a loved one or job, major life changes are associated with external stress, according to HelpGuide.org. Examples of the chief stressful life occurrences include a loved one's death, divorce, marriage separation, injury, illness or retirement. These events can change the way you view your life and those around you, causing you to re-evaluate yourself. When major life changes occur, it's important to find healthy ways to cope with stress. From talking to a medical professional to exercising to writing down your feelings, these all provide healthy ways of coping with extreme stress following a life-changing event.
Family
According to LifeCare.com, family stressors such as parenting concerns, caring for elderly loved ones or just family issues in general can become a major source of stress for Americans. Although not listed as the chief stress cause in a person's life, family can present personal challenges that can cause worry and concern for loved ones and for your ability to provide for them, according to Helpguide.org.
Finances
Financial downturns can cause concern for your future and for that of your family and loved ones, according to LifeCare.com. From concerns over the future of your job to the ability to pay the bills, financial challenges can leave you feeling anxious and depressed. Seeking the assistance of a financial counselor may help you to find relief from this common stressor. Many community organizations offer free seminars or consultants to assist you in sorting out any financial concerns you may have.
