Over 2,000 Brits were surveyed (Picture: Getty)
Life is undeniably stressful but have you ever thought about what situation trumps the lot?
Well, the top ten most stressful life events in the UK have been revealed.
New research conducted by Benenden Health surveyed 2,000 Brits and found the loss of a loved one is the most stressful occurrence.
Going through a challenging period financially was revealed to be the most stressful for all age groups under the age of 45, whilst exams and studying topped the list for those under 25.
The survey found that people believe sitting exams and watching the news to be more stressful than starting a new job or having a child.
Meanwhile, the tricky world of social media and dating are now both considered more stressful than getting married.
The battle of the generations was also identified in the survey. Fewer than one in five respondents (16%) said that they believe life was more stressful for their parents’ generation, citing increased financial pressures, demands at work and climate change as key reasons for this shift.
According to the research, the top ten most stressful events in our lives today are:
The death of a family member or friendFinancial challengesIssues at workChange in a relationshipDivorceExams & studyingBuying a houseReading/watching the newsHaving a childStarting a new job
In light of the research, Benenden Health is now urging people to be aware of their mental health and others.
The call comes as part of the mutual’s ‘Time for a Check In’ campaign which was launched last month in partnership with Channel 4.
TV presenter Davina McCall spoke on behalf of the campaign and said: ‘Like so many people, I have gone through various stages in my life where I have dealt with poor mental health and life is crazy!
‘It is totally understandable for us to be stressed by the challenges we face in our lives.
‘Whilst we all manage our own mental health differently, the first step of any solution for me, is to acknowledge when I’m feeling stressed or down and try and open up about it.
‘Most of life’s most stressful events are shared by others we love around us, so these difficult periods in our lives don’t need to be faced alone.’
While Cheryl Lythgoe, Matron at Benenden Health, added: ‘As life’s challenges change over time, we are seeing a shift in what affects our stress levels, so it is important to recognise and understand when we, and those around us, may be going through a challenging time.
‘Stress impacts us all in different ways so identifying our triggers – as well as those of our loved ones – can help to acknowledge and address any mental health challenges when we are faced with stressful situations.
‘Through greater understanding and by checking in more frequently, we can help reduce the impact of our own stress, but also support others at the times that they need it most.’
Do you have a story to share?
Get in touch by emailing [email protected].
MORE : How stress can affect the immune system
MORE : Dogs can sniff out the scent of stress, new research claims
MORE : How to deal with ‘charge anxiety’ – the fear of a dead phone battery
Exams and studying topped the list for those under 25.