What is stress?
Stress, which can be noted as biological, psychological, or physiological, is the response in which one experiences a stressor. A stressor challenges one’s ability to adapt in particular circumstances.
For example, if your boss gives you a project deadline, the stressor may be accomplishing the project by its deadline. Stress is your response to addressing and adapting to this stressor. If you have a plan and know it will be accomplished with minimal effort, the result may be low levels of stress. However, higher levels of stress may occur due to fear or worry about not completing it by the deadline or about the standard you expect it to meet, leading to various stress-related symptoms over time.
How can I tell if I am experiencing stress?
Stress presents in both physical and psychological ways (Becker et al., 2023). Psychologically, stress is a state of worry or mental tension that can lead to anxiety and/or depression.
Physiologically, stress can be experienced in the following ways:
- Decreased energy or exhaustion
- Chest pains or a racing heart
- Headaches
- Chronic pain
- High blood pressure
- Frequent illness
- Changes in appetite
- Excessive sweating
- Muscle tension or jaw clenching
- Stomach or digestive problems
- and more
Do other people experience stress?
Stress is inevitable, and nearly everyone experiences stress in their daily life (Wersebe et al., 2018). Some common stressors include big life changes, work or school deadlines, lack of control in situations, experiencing hate, discrimination, or abuse, experiencing a traumatic event, arguments with loved ones, going through a breakup or divorce, a heightened level of pressure to perform in some way, financial challenges, instability in one’s home, and many more.
The types of stress and stressors, as well as their duration and intensity, depend on the individual, taking into account their circumstances, experiences, ability to manage and cope, and the support they receive.
How can therapy help with stress?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most commonly used therapies for stress management. Previous research suggests that CBT-based stress-management interventions are most effective in improving quality of life, decreasing perceived stress, as well as decreasing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and burnout (Feldman, 2019). CBT-based stress-management interventions can help individuals develop skills to navigate stressors in a more adaptive way. These skills aim to reduce distress caused by the individual’s thoughts around the stressor.
Have questions or want to schedule an appointment? Call 646-599-3498
Where can I find therapy in NYC?
If you are looking for therapy in NYC and don’t know where to start, you are not alone. Finding a therapist can be overwhelming and costly, especially in NYC. If you’re looking for a cost-effective therapist, you can either search for one who accepts your insurance or find an outpatient practice that offers lower fees. Here at NYBH, we offer therapy at reduced rates with intern therapists. All of our therapists are CBT-trained and can offer skills and support to those experiencing stress. Plus, many places offer virtual options in addition to in-person sessions.
It’s important you find someone who you feel comfortable with and trust. It is not uncommon to speak with multiple therapists before finding one that you connect with. Want to make a change? Learn more, contact us today.
References
Barrett, K., & Stewart, I. (2020). A preliminary comparison of the efficacy of online acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) stress management interventions for social and healthcare workers. Health & Social Care in the Community, 29(1), 113–126. https://doi.org/10.1111/hsc.13074
Becker, S., Spinath, B., Ditzen, B., & Dörfler, T. (2023). Psychological stress = physiological stress? Journal of Psychophysiology, 37(1), 12–24. https://doi.org/10.1027/0269-8803/a000301
Feldman, M. (2019) A CBT-Based Stress Management Intervention for Work-Related Stress [Doctoral dissertation, Palo Alto University]. ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global. https://www.proquest.com/openview/cdbff0ecd92a0e547e8bf7418bb0f70d/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=18750&diss=y
Wersebe, H., Lieb, R., Meyer, A. H., Hofer, P., & Gloster, A. T. (2018). The link between stress, well-being, and psychological flexibility during an acceptance and commitment therapy self-help intervention. International Journal of Clinical and Health Psychology, 18(1), 60–68. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijchp.2017.09.002
Last updated 7/19/2026
