Stress

Stress is the body and mind's response to demands or pressure. Short-term stress can be helpful, but chronic stress can affect mood, sleep, concentration, and physical health.

Definition

Stress is a natural reaction to challenges or threats. Acute stress can boost focus and performance, but prolonged or overwhelming stress may contribute to anxiety, low mood, sleep problems, and physical symptoms. The Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) measures how stressful life has felt over the past month.

What it can feel like

  • Feeling overwhelmed by responsibilities.
  • Trouble sleeping or relaxing.
  • Irritability or difficulty concentrating.
  • Physical tension, headaches, or fatigue.

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Related glossary terms

Frequently asked questions

Is all stress bad?

No. Moderate, short-term stress can improve motivation and performance. Chronic or excessive stress is what tends to harm wellbeing.

How is stress measured?

The PSS-10 asks how unpredictable, uncontrollable, and overloaded life has felt over the past month, giving a perceived-stress score.

Sources

  • Cohen S, Kamarck T, Mermelstein R. Perceived Stress Scale (1983)
  • WHO — stress and mental health

Last reviewed: 2026-07-02. Screening tools on LuriaLab are for education only and do not provide a diagnosis.