Stress and Anxiety This Emotional Life - PBS

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Stress and Anxiety

		

Everyone knows what someone means when they say they are “stressed out.” But what is stress itself?

Stress is your body’s response to anything that disrupts your normal life and routines. The causes of stress can be everyday events and changes, such as relationships, work, money, and difficult decisions. They can also be traumatic events, such as the death of a loved one, natural disasters, and trauma. The good news is that people are resilient. We can recognize stress as a natural response to changes and challenges, and we can learn how best to respond to these cues when managing stress.

Seven things you should know about Stress and Anxiety

  1. Stress is linked to the six leading causes of death: heart disease, cancer, lung ailments, accidents, cirrhosis of the liver, and suicide

  2. In 2008, more than half of Americans reported fatigue, irritability, sleeplessness, and headaches due to stress

  3. In 2008, Americans reported their top three causes of stress as money, the economy, and work

  4. About 40 million Americans experience anxiety disorders every year

  5. People with an anxiety disorder are three to five times more likely to go to the doctor, usually for physical symptoms brought on by the anxiety

  6. People with anxiety disorders frequently also experience mood disorders or substance abuse

  7. There are effective treatments for anxiety disorders, including cognitive behavioral therapy and medication

Find Help

Locate mental health and well-being support organizations in your area.

This Emotional Life: Premieres January 4, 2010