The Stress Code

Stress is good and bad. A little stress can help people grow. A lot of stress can ruin people. 

Stress, which is ubiquitous, can be both good and bad. A little stress at the right time can serve as the forced but needed impetus that sparks growth and success – and in prehistoric times, fight-or-flight survival.

It’s largely impossible to avoid stressful circumstances. Stress can lead to numerous negative and potentially debilitating challenges to your physical and mental well-being. Heavy doses of continual stress can destroy or shorten lives.

Chronic stress can cause fear, increased blood pressure, heartbeat issues, headaches/migraines, sweating, prematurely aged skin, sexual issues, problems with digestion, “hearing loss/ringing in ears, reduced kidney function, more frequent urination [and] sleeplessness.” Other negative effects include a reduction in your drive to accomplish your goals, indulging in antisocial actions, and suffering unease, fright and a constant sense of uncertainty.

People who suffer from chronic stress have a strong susceptibility to colds and flu. Their appetite often increases. So does...