Without some stress, life would be very dull indeed. Stress provides an adrenaline rush to help you meet challenges and deadlines, think creatively and even get you through illness and childbirth.

But too much is a different matter. Stress triggers the natural 'fight or flight' reaction, raising adrenaline levels so the body is more prepared to deal with danger. This accelerates the heart and breathing rate, and raises blood pressure, which isn't good if it happens regularly. You can feel out of control, exhaust your immune system, and become more vulnerable to illness. In some people stress can cause chest pains, palpitations, cold hands and feet, hair loss and even eating disorders. It can also drive up stress hormone levels, affect the sebaceous glands and trigger skin problems like acne.

Apart from the obvious ones – bereavement, divorce or moving house – enjoyable events, such as marriage or a holiday can have high stress ratings. And work-related problems, from overwork to poor relationships with colleagues, are also a major cause – and the second biggest occupational health problem in the UK after back pain*.

But for many women, it's the daily grind of juggling home and work, with not enough hours in the day, that causes the most stress. This can go on over a long period and may be ignored until illness strikes.

Learning to keep things in proportion is vital for managing stress effectively. Does it really matter if your train is late, or your son rips his school trousers? You also have to be realistic, accept your own limitations and, sometimes, put yourself first.

*Source: Office of National Statistics