Stress Check
Chronic stress elevates cortisol, weakens immunity, and increases cardiovascular risk. Recognize your stress patterns and build healthy coping strategies.
If you are helping someone age well
Watch for withdrawal from activities, skipped social events, or saying "I'm fine" while seeming down. A regular phone call, shared meal, or ride to a group activity can make a real difference.
Stay connected — not just calm
How Stress Affects Your Body
When you are stressed, your body releases hormones that prepare you for danger. This is helpful in emergencies, but when it happens every day, it wears your body down.
Headaches
Chronic stress causes tension headaches and migraines over time.
Trouble sleeping
Stress keeps your brain alert at night, making it hard to fall and stay asleep.
Stomach problems
Stress affects digestion and can cause acid reflux, stomach pain, and irritable bowel syndrome.
Weakened immune system
Long-term stress makes it harder for your body to fight off infections.
High blood pressure
Stress hormones raise your heart rate and blood pressure, which can damage your heart over time.
Memory problems
Chronic stress shrinks the part of your brain that handles memory and learning.
How Stressed Are You Right Now?
Click the meter to show your stress level, or pick a situation below.
What is causing stress?
Box Breathing Exercise
Go at your own pace — tap Next when you are ready for each step. There is no timer.
Step 1 of 5
Find a comfortable seat. Place one hand on your chest and one on your belly.