Stress is what you feel when you have to handle more than
you are used to. When you are stressed, your body responds
as though you are in danger. It makes hormones that speed up
your heart, make you breathe faster, and give you a burst of
energy. But if stress happens too often or lasts too long, it can
have bad effects.
Stress can be linked to headaches, an upset stomach, back
pain and trouble sleeping. It can weaken your immune system,
making it harder to fight off disease. Sometimes it is clear
where stress is coming from. You can count on stress during
a major life change such as the death of a loved one, getting
married or having a baby. But other times it may not be clear
why you feel stressed.