Everyone experiences stress at some points in their lives but some cope better than others. Stress  is usually associated with negativity but it can be caused by exciting things  such as moving house, getting married, having a baby,leaving school, starting college or university

Personal stressors are the  things, people, circumstances or events which trigger the stress response. We all have a natural inclination to move away from anything that causes pain or upset, much preferring the fun and pleasurable things that life has to offer but in this real world we need to find  a balance.

Pressure at work, school, college, exams, tests,  competitiveness, failures, harsh words, negative critisism, family upsets,  money worries, keeping up with technology, new or broken friendships/relationships,  peer pressure, arguments,  having to make difficult decisions,fights, divorce, bereavement - we all respond differently according to our own attitudes, beliefs and values

Most people can cope with short periods of  pressure or mild stress, and it can often be relieved by  deep breathing, taking time out to relax, going for a walk,  discussing things  with friends, or having a good night's sleep. Chronic (long-term, continuous) stress is much harder to deal with, and can be psychologically and emotionally damaging, both for an individual and for friends and family.