The Health and Safety Executive defines stress as: The adverse reaction people have to excessive pressure or other types of demand placed on them.

We all have pressure in our lives and a certain amount of pressure very often gives us the motivation we need to perform well. Problems begin when one is put under more pressure than an individual's mind and body can handle, resulting in stress.  Stress has many adverse effects; it impedes performance, is costly to employers and can make people ill.

Stress is a silent enemy; very often the process is so gradual, you're not even aware that you are stressed.