Mental Health Physical Health

Stress

11 Apr 2025 4 min read

Stress is something we all experience. Deadlines, money worries, relationships, caring responsibilities and busy working days can all put pressure on us, and in small amounts, stress can even help us stay focused and motivated. But when the pressure builds up and doesn’t ease, it can start to affect both our body and mind.

Long term stress can affect our sleep, mood, concentration and relationships, and it has been linked to a range of physical and mental health problems, from headaches and a weakened immune system to anxiety, depression and burnout. Recognising the signs early and knowing how to manage stress can help protect your health and wellbeing.

In this article, we explain what stress is, the difference between acute and chronic stress, the physical, emotional and behavioural signs to look out for, and why reducing stress matters. You’ll also find trusted resources and support for adults, young people and parents or caregivers at the end of the page.

Stress is a physical and mental response to external or internal events that the brain interprets as dangerous. A stress response can occur when we feel out of control or unable to tolerate what we are experiencing. It is a natural human response to life, and as individuals we respond to stress in our own way.

It is a feeling of being overwhelmed, tense, or exhausted. A small amount can be motivating, but too much of it is never a good thing.

There are 2 main types of stress:

Acute Stress:	this is short term and an immediate response to a specific challenge or threat. For example, preparing for a test or facing an argument. The effects are temporary increase in energy and focus and usually resolves quickly.
Chronic Stress:	this is long term and results from ongoing challenges and/or pressures. For example, financial problems or caring for a loved one. The effects can lead to burnout, anxiety and depression and physical health issues.

Stress is the feeling of being overwhelmed and not being able to cope physically, emotionally or mentally.

Physical signs	can include, chest pain, headaches, digestion issues and struggling with sleep.
Emotional signs	can include, struggling to focus, depression and anxiety, irritability and anger.
Behavioural signs	can include, eating too much, isolating and avoiding socialising, misuse of drugs and alcohol.

These are just some of the signs and symptoms, you can read more here: Signs and symptoms of stress – Mind

‘nine in 10 (91%) of adults experienced high pressure or stress at some point over the last year’ – Mental Health UK, 2025

Reducing stress helps maintain your physical and mental wellbeing by:

Improving your mood and productivity
Boosting your immune system
Reducing your risk of developing other illnesses, from a headaches to heart disease or diabetes
Preventing other mental health conditions from developing, like anxiety or depression
Enhancing your sleep quality

This link has various pieces of self-help information: How to manage and reduce stress | Mental Health Foundation

It’s okay to ask for professional help if you feel that you’re struggling to manage stress on your own. It’s important to get help as soon as possible.

Often, the first step to getting support is speaking to your GP. Additionally, there are voluntary organisations which can help you tackle the causes of stress and advise you about ways to get better. Some of these are listed below:

Stress

Resource Links for Adults:

Resource Links for Young People:

Resource Links for Parent/ Caregiver:

Stress

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