What is a "stressor"?

A "stressor" is defined as something that causes stress. This can encompass a wide variety of triggers, including external factors like work pressure, family responsibilities, or social situations, as well as internal factors such as health concerns or personal anxieties. Understanding that stressors can originate from various sources is crucial because it helps individuals identify what particular situations or conditions may be contributing to their stress levels.

By recognizing stressors, people can better address them, developing strategies to manage or mitigate their effects. This perspective is foundational in fields such as psychology, where managing stress and promoting well-being are essential. It is important to differentiate between a stressor and responses to stress or solutions for stress management, as recognizing the origin of stress can lead to more effective coping strategies.