This document provides an overview of stress, including its causes and effects. It defines stress as the body's nonspecific response to demands placed upon it. Stress can be environmental, mental, or physical. When stressed, the body enters an alarm stage of increased heart rate and blood pressure to prepare for fighting or fleeing. If stress continues, the body enters a resistance stage of trying to cope, then an exhaustion stage if unable to cope. Common stressors include life events, changes, demands, and chronic stress. The document discusses the difference between good and bad stress, as well as individual differences in stress perception and response.