Stress is part of daily life and, in small doses, can be useful motivation. But over longer periods, stress can become harmful and may be a sign of something more serious.
Stress affects everyone in different ways, and it can be hard to distinguish between ordinary, everyday stress and more serious anxiety disorders or depression. It's important to understand how stress usually affects you, and how to notice changes in your behaviour that might signal more serious problems.
Check out the broad guidelines MAS has put together to help you understand and notice changes in your stress levels.