There are two main kinds of stress. Mayo Clinic describes these as acute, an immediate and intense reaction to a perceived threat, and chronic, which is the result of long-term acute stress and is often related to day-to-day problems. Stress can be caused by internal or external forces, from life events or work-based situations. If you are stressed to a level where you have difficulty functioning in your daily activities, please consult your health care provider.
Relationships
At many stages of life, relationships offer comfort and strength. However that is not always the case. Planning a wedding and the first months of a new marriage can be very stressful for a couple as they adapt to all the changes and expectations. There are many stressful changes also associated with any break-up, separation, divorce, and even reconciliation. Between the logistical and legal problems, divorce is one of the leading causes of stress reported by the Holmes-Rahe Life Stress Inventory.
Environment
When facing large changes in your environment, such as a big move, travel, or retirement, the stress can be minor or overwhelming. However, even small scale environmental factors like a bright light when you are trying to sleep or a barking dog while you are relaxing can be causes of stress.
Death
The death of a spouse, parent, child or other relative or close friend is a major stressor for many people. Whether the death is sudden or anticipated, the effects on those left behind are great. Having to make funeral and/or burial arrangements may further the stress reaction.
Health
Receiving a physical or mental health diagnosis or sustaining a physical injury can be a very stressful experience. One particularly stressful health experience is pregnancy. In addition to the physical changes, the hormonal changes and preparations for the new addition to the family can also often result in extensive stress.
Work
Stresses at work can be from a wide variety of personal and interpersonal situations. The interview and hiring process is just the beginning of workplace stressors. Getting additional responsibilities or a promotion can increase on-the-job stress, as can a change in supervisor or structure of the project you are working on. Another common job stress is tensions with co-workers and personality conflicts. In the cycle of workplace stress lay-offs and unemployment are significant stressors, and in the current economic climate, very common ones.
