1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Palliative Care

Stress Definition

By , About.com Guide

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Definition: Stress is the body's reaction to a change that requires a physical, mental or emotional adjustment or response.

Stress can come from any situation or thought that makes you feel frustrated, angry, nervous, or anxious.

Stress is caused by an existing stress-causing factor or "stressor."

Dealing with a serious illness or caring for someone who is can cause a great deal of stress.

Also Known As: distress
Explore Palliative Care
About.com Special Features

Learn how you can reduce your your numbers with these nutrition and exercise tips. More >

Keep yourself, and your family, happy and healthy this fall with these tips. More >

We comply with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here.
  1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Palliative Care
  4. Glossary
  5. Stress - Definition of Stress>

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.