Some positive minor hassles are a call from a friend during busy work hours, unexpected guests or planning for a social gathering. Some negative stresses include traffic jams, lost car keys, disagreements with spouse or friend, and work frustrations. These types of stresses are minor irritants which can accumulate and add to a constant stress. Major changes are any changes, whether positive or negative, that affect your life. Positive stresses can be events such as receiving a promotion, having a new baby and getting married.
Negative stresses can include losing a loved one or losing a job.
These stresses cause you to adapt to a new way of life. The adaptation can be just as stressful as the change. Stress overload is when you find that you are overwhelmed with circumstances beyond your control. Situations at home and at work combine to an unmanageable degree. A feeling of not knowing what to do next is common with this stress.