For many people, stress is a daily hurdle to clear: Anything from work conflicts to relationship woes can spark tension and unease. According to FamilyDoctor.org, stress can cause physical symptoms such as high blood pressure, shortness of breath, stomach aches, neck stiffness, changes in body weight, fatigue and back pain, as well as psychological illnesses such as depression and anxiety.
Work
For many people, the workplace breeds ample opportunities for stress. As the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health explains, job stress occurs when a worker cannot meet the demands of a job because of insufficient skills, knowledge, time, capabilities or other resources, resulting in exhaustion and unease. For a struggling employee, fear of job loss or pressure from supervisors to improve performance can exacerbate feelings of anxiety. In addition to task-related tension, conflicts with coworkers, lack of managerial support, infrequent work breaks, poor social conditions or an unpleasant physical setting can contribute to an uncomfortable work environment and cause stress.
Personal Relationships
Relationships with close friends, family members or romantic partners are often a source of stress and conflict. According to Dr. Morton Orman, owner of the Stress Cure website and founder of the Health Resource Network, relationships often feature tension because of differing communication styles, power struggles, arguments, misunderstandings, incompatible values and lack of mutual respect. In romantic relationships, issues like jealousy and infidelity can provoke conflict and lead to stress, as can unrealistic expectations about the relationship.
Changes
Significant changes---whether positive or negative---can be major sources of stress at any stage of life. As FamilyDoctor.org explains, major changes such as a job loss or promotion, pregnancy, the death of a spouse or family member, sudden illness, injury, relocation, marriage, divorce, the departure of a child to college or other important events can force you to adapt to new and potentially uncomfortable situations, often leading to stress. Because each person reacts differently to change, whether or not these events trigger stress depends largely on an individual's coping strategies and personality.
Finances
Money is a significant source of stress, particularly in times of economic downturn. According to Dr. Jo Turner, professor of economics at the University of Florida, financial stress can stem from anxiety over bills, debt, payments on credit accounts, lack of savings or the inability to pay for basic necessities or desired items. In a family setting, money can lead to stressful conflicts about budget management, spending habits, division of earnings and other financial issues. Social pressure to afford luxuries and earn a high income can also contribute to stress, especially for individuals who are concerned with public image and social status.
