Stress and Health

Abstract

There is research evidence to support associations between specific stressors and physical or mental health problems in different groups of people. There is also increasing research evidence to demonstrate pathways by which children may be negatively affected by maternal experiences of stress, both in utero and throughout development. This can lead to health problems in the next generation. In this way, the negative effects of stress can become a further burden for individuals and society. Innovative research is being undertaken to find ways to mitigate the effects of unavoidable stress, to improve the health of individuals, and to reduce the cost of stress to society.