Stress

Stress isn’t a diagnostic term, but it is one that we all use to describe feeling overwhelmed or distressed. If people experience extreme levels of stress for a significant period of time, this is likely to have an adverse impact on their health. For example, people who are stressed are more likely to engage in unhealthy lifestyle habits, such as consuming excessive caffeine and/or alcohol. Some may turn to drugs to help them cope or unwind. People who are feeling stressed are more likely to have disrupted sleep. Persistent feelings of ‘stress’ can lead to anxiety and depression, but can also increase people’s risk of developing physical health problems, such as type 2 diabetes or heart disease.