Feeling worried, tense, or under a lot of pressure.
Past participle of “stress,” from Middle English “stresse” (hardship or pressure). It shifted from describing external pressure to the inner feeling it creates.
Being stressed is your brain’s way of saying, “Too many tabs open, not enough memory.” A small amount can sharpen focus, but chronic stress quietly wears down both body and mind.
Descriptions of being 'stressed' have sometimes been gendered, with women’s stress dismissed as over-sensitivity and men’s stress framed as a sign of heavy responsibility. This has influenced who receives support and accommodations.
Use 'stressed' based on self-report, not stereotypes about who 'should' be stressed, and avoid trivializing anyone’s stress because of gendered expectations.
["under pressure","overwhelmed","strained"]
Women have organized around shared experiences of being overworked and stressed, from consciousness-raising groups to labor organizing and mental health advocacy.
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