Stress Performance Curve

A certain level of stress in our lives can be helpful - and indeed essential. It enables us to get things done and to perform at our very best in both work and play situations. When we talk about "being stressed" what we're usually referring to are levels of stress that we perceive as being too high, unplesant or both, i.e. at a level that is unproductive and can lead to feelings of anxiety, not being able to cope, etc. as well as a tendency for us to feel more fatigued and more prone to illness.