Stress can be both physical and mental.
You may feel physical stress which is the result of too much to do, not enough sleep, a poor diet or the effects of an illness. Stress can also be mental: when you worry too much about money, a loved one’s illness, retirement, or experience an emotionally devastating event, such as the death of a spouse or being fired from work.
However, much of our stress comes from less dramatic everyday responsibilities. Obligations and pressures which are both physical and mental are not always obvious to us. In response to these daily strains your body automatically increases blood pressure, heart rate, respiration, metabolism and blood flow to your muscles. This response is intended to help your body react quickly and effectively to a high-pressure situation.
When you’re constantly reacting to stressful situations without making adjustments to counter the effects, you will feel stress which can threaten your health and well-being.