Stress is a natural process that can be beneficial in some instances, but highly detrimental in others. The biological ‘fight or flight’ response evolved millions of years ago to protect early humans from physical threats, and we have carried it through to the modern day where the threats are very different.
We’re no longer being chased by predators or living in caves, but data suggests we’re more stressed than ever. The Mental Health Foundation reports that over three-quarters of adults (78 per cent) have felt so stressed at some point in the last year that they felt overwhelmed or unable to cope. According to Mental Health UK, nine in 10 (91 per cent) of UK adults experienced high pressure or stress at some point in 2024.
“Stress levels across the UK have increased in recent years,” s