Melissa Plantz

Mental stress is draining and can lead to physiological issues, such as headaches, digestive problems, and chest tightness or pain. The emotional issues that can sprout from mental stress include anxiety, depression, and panic attacks. The good news is that once you understand the causes and types of mental stress, you can find ways to relieve it and get back to feeling more like yourself. What is Mental Stress? Stress is a natural reaction to a threat or concern. Stress activates the fight, flight, or freeze response to protect us from a predator or a situation that could hurt us. Unfortunately, the brain can translate uncomfortable situations, locations, or people as threats. It can take our worries and fears and blow them out of proportion. The resulting mental stress takes a toll on the body, mind, and spirit. The Causes of Mental Stress The causes of mental stress vary. Each person carries stress differently, and what may impact one person a little may cause a panic attack in another. There are countless contributors to mental stress, and it can vary where the pressure is coming from. Many people worry about things that are outside their control. Others feel overwhelmed by too much pressure or responsibility. Changes, both positive and negative, can be stressful, like a new baby or a job loss. Financial strains, academic pressures, workplace stress, and family demands all contribute to mental stress. Certainly, relationships that are in crisis can elevate stress levels, whether it is estrangement from a loved one, the impact of a chronic illness, or the grief of loss. Major Types of Stress There are two major types of stress. The first is acute stress, and almost everyone experiences it at least once during their lifetime. Connected to this type of stress is episodic acute [...]