Stress is our response to anything that throws our systems out of balance, and is intended to motivate us to make changes to restore that balance. This applies physically such as in cases of hunger, cold, injury, etc. but also applies to mental distress. Mental stress may be more subtle, but no less serious. Your body may be expressing stress in the form of headaches, muscle spasms, sleep disturbances, memory loss, and digestive problems like stomach ulcers. High stress can also lead to anxiety and depression and other mood disorders. Moreover, stress can also stand in the way of personal development and emotional growth.