Stress Management
Causes of Stress
Long-term (chronic) stress is the type of stress that causes the most serious problems. It is caused by a host of irritating hassles over a period of time, or an ongoing, difficult situation. Conditions that may lead to chronic stress include:
- Health problems, if you have a chronic illness such as heart disease, diabetes or arthritis.
- Emotional problems, such as unexpressed or uncontrolled anger, depression, grief, guilt, or low self-esteem.
- Relationship problems, if you do not have someone to share your feelings with, are having difficulty in a relationship, or feel that you have few friends.
- Your surroundings, if you live in a dangerous or uncomfortable area where overcrowding, crime, pollution, or noise is a problem.
- Your job, if you are unhappy with your work, or your work is dangerous or too demanding. For more information, see the topic Managing Job Stress.
- Your social situation, such as poverty, loneliness, or discrimination based on race, gender, age, or sexual orientation.
- Life cycle transitions and developmental stages, such as becoming a teenager, leaving home, or getting married.
- Conflicts with your belief system—your perceptions and beliefs about the world, life, and yourself. For instance, if you place a high value on family life but don't have the family life you want, you may feel stress.
- A child or teen, or other family member who is under stress because of physical or emotional problems.
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| Author: | Jeannette Curtis | Last Updated: April 25, 2007 |
| Medical Review: | Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine Paul J. Rosch, MD | |
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