CAUSES OF STRESS
Explore the Major Causes of Stress in Our Lives
Stress comes from work, relationships and money, along with less obvious sources. Knowing where yours comes from is the first step to reducing it.
IN THIS TOPIC
THE BASICS
What Are Common Causes of Stress?
Common causes of stress include job pressure, money problems, health issues, relationship problems, major life changes and over-commitment. Environmental factors such as poor sleep, a poor diet and no time for rest add to the load. Identifying your triggers is key to managing stress.
Key factors leading to stress
- Work pressure, including deadlines and job insecurity
- Financial issues, such as debt or household budgeting
- Health concerns, for yourself and for loved ones
- Relationship challenges with partners, family or friends
- Major life changes, such as moving, a job change or bereavement
- Time management difficulties and feeling overwhelmed
- Environmental factors, such as a chaotic or unsafe area
KNOW YOUR TRIGGERS?
Not sure which cause hits you hardest? Take the Perceived Stress Scale to see how stressed you feel, then use the guides below to find your sources.
SEVEN SOURCES OF STRESS
Find What Is Weighing on You
Each guide stands on its own. Start with the cause that feels closest to home.
RELATIONSHIPS
Relational Stress
Conflict, poor communication, divorce, and the strain of parenting or family problems can keep your stress response switched on.
WORK
Organizational Stress
Long hours, tight deadlines, difficult management and constant change are leading drivers of burnout and health problems.
SCHOOL
Academic Stress
High expectations, competition and fear of failure put students under pressure that shows up in sleep, focus and health.
SOCIETY
Social Stress
Peer pressure, social expectations and fear of missing out can leave you feeling inadequate and isolated.
MONEY
Financial Stress
Debt, job instability, too little savings and low wages are among the most common worries people report.
HEALTH
Health-Related Stress
Worry about existing conditions, fear of future illness and a hard-to-navigate healthcare system can all feed stress.
MEANING
Existential Stress
Struggles with purpose, identity, mortality and meaning can create an unease that is hard to put into words.
NEXT TOPIC
Symptoms of Stress
Now that you know where stress comes from, learn how to recognize it in your body, mind and behavior.