Introduction

In modern era, stress is more than a temporary response to challenges. It is a pervasive, chronic condition that has infiltrated nearly every facet of human existence. According to World Health Organization (WHO), stress is now considered "health epidemic of 21st century".^[1] It affects individuals regardless of socio-economic status, age or geography, and has profound consequences for personal well-being, workplace efficiency, and societal health. The digital age, while bringing convenience, has simultaneously amplified stressors. Constant connectivity, information overload, and pressure to perform in an increasingly competitive environment contribute to chronic stress. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed fragility of mental health infrastructure and intensified psychological burdens globally. As stress-related health issues escalate, it is critical to understand and address this phenomenon holistically.

Review Strategy

This narrative review collates existing literature from biomedical and Ayurvedic sources. Research articles were retrieved from databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and AYUSH Research Portal using terms like "stress", "occupational stress", "Ayurveda and stress", and "mental health interventions". Classical Ayurvedic texts were also referenced for traditional perspectives.

Definitions and Classifications of Stress

Stress is commonly defined as the body’s response to any demand or challenge. Hans Selye, a pioneering endocrinologist, introduced the General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS), which describes the three stages of stress response: alarm, resistance, and exhaustion.

Stress can be classified into various types:

• Acute stress: Short-term stress arising from recent or anticipated demands.
• Chronic stress: Long-term exposure to stressors leading to prolonged activation of the stress response system.
• Eustress: Positive stress that can motivate individuals.
• Distress: Negative stress that impairs functioning.

• Behavioral issues: Substance abuse, eating disorders, and aggression.
• Immune dysfunction: Increased susceptibility to infections and slower wound healing.

The burden of stress-related illnesses translates into significant healthcare costs and reduced life expectancy.

Occupational Stress

A Modern Epidemic In the workplace, stress stems from role ambiguity, performance pressure, and lack of job security. The Job Demand-Control model by Karasek identifies high demands and low control as key predictors of occupational stress.^[9] Burnout, characterized by emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and a diminished sense of accomplishment, is prevalent in high-stress professions such as healthcare, education, and law enforcement.^[10] Corporate wellness programs, employee assistance initiatives, and mental health days are emerging strategies, but systemic change is required to reduce workplace stress at its roots.

Stress in Youth

Youth and Academic Settings Students today face academic stress due to competitive environments, parental expectations, and fear of failure. This stress impacts learning, memory, and social development.^[11] School-based interventions like peer mentoring, mindfulness training, and curriculum reforms can reduce stress levels. Universities are now investing in counselling centres and wellness programs to support student mental health.

Gender and Cultural Dimensions of Stress

Stress experiences vary by gender and culture. Women often report higher stress levels due to role conflicts, caregiving responsibilities, and social expectations.^[12] Cultural stigma around mental health in certain societies leads to underreporting and inadequate treatment. Understanding cultural nuances is vital in designing effective interventions.

Ayurveda and Stress Management

Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, offers a holistic framework for understanding and managing stress. Stress, or "Manasika Roga," is viewed as an imbalance in the Tridoshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha).^[13]

The Role of Technology in Managing Stress

Modern digital tools - including apps, wearables, and virtual therapy platforms - are reshaping how stress is managed. Features like guided meditation, mood tracking, and biofeedback are easily accessible and can reach a wide audience. Nonetheless, overuse of digital devices and social media may worsen stress levels. Therefore, promoting digital awareness and conscious technology use is crucial.

Implications for Public Policy and Health

Governments and health organizations should treat mental health as a top priority. Effective policies need to establish workplace mental health norms, introduce stress education in schools, ensure accessible mental health services, run awareness and de-stigmatization campaigns, include traditional systems like Ayurveda in public healthcare, and invest in prevention, research, and cross-sector collaboration.

Conclusion

Stress has become a hallmark of modern life, affecting individuals across physical, emotional, and social dimensions. A multi-level response - combining personal efforts, organizational accountability, and systemic policy change - is essential. By nurturing a society that prioritizes mental wellness and draws on traditional practices such as Ayurveda, we can lessen the burden of stress and promote collective resilience.

References