Stress is a natural psychological and physical response to challenging situations or demands, also known as stressors. These stressors can be caused by various factors such as work, relationships, financial difficulties, or major life events. When individuals encounter stress, their body responds by releasing hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol, which trigger the “fight or flight” response, preparing the body for action. While stress can be beneficial in small amounts, chronic or excessive stress can have negative effects on an individual’s mental and physical health, including anxiety, depression, high blood pressure, and immune system suppression.