Is Stress Addictive? Understanding and Breaking the Cycle

With busy schedules, endless notifications, and always something on our minds, it can feel impossible to truly unwind. Even when we try to relax—whether it’s a hot bath, a Netflix binge, or unplugging for an hour—sometimes our minds just won’t switch off. Lately, there’s been a buzz online around a surprising question: Is stress…addictive? Believe it or not, the answer is yes. It’s possible to become addicted to stress —and for many of us, living in a constant state of pressure and worry can start to feel like the norm.

Let’s break down why this happens, what it looks like, and most importantly, how you can break the cycle and find your calm again.

When you’re stressed, your body releases cortisol (the stress hormone) and even a little burst of dopamine (the “reward” chemical). This makes us feel alert, motivated—and sometimes, even a bit of a rush. However, when stress is constant, it can throw your hormones out of balance, leaving you feeling burned out instead of accomplished. Addiction experts have even found that stress can create a “natural high” and cravings—just like other addictive behaviours. You might start seeking out stressful situations for the adrenaline rush without realising it. Picture this: whether it’s at work, school, or even at home, you might start chasing stress to feel accomplished, important, or even just to feel “alive.” But living in a constant state of stress is not healthy for either your mind or body.

Sometimes, it’s our mindset that keeps the stress cycle going. If you’re always bracing for the next crisis, your body stays stuck in “fight or flight” mode—even when there’s no real danger. Over time, this toxic loop can take a toll on your mental and physical health. Constant stress or chasing that “rush” can lead to anxiety, depression,  insomnia, chronic fatigue, trouble focusing, skin flare-ups, and even a weakened immune system.

What can stress addiction look like? You might notice:

• Always seeking out stressful situations

• Thriving on drama or stirring up conflict

• engaging in risky or self-sabotaging behaviours

• Struggling to focus or feel calm, even when you have downtime

• Neglecting self-care because you’re “too busy” or always on the go

• Feeling stressed is your default, even when things are going well

Breaking the CCycle: How to De-Stress and Find Balance

If you’re worried that stress has become your “normal,” try these positive lifestyle shifts to help you break free:

1. Meditation & Mindfulness
Meditation and mindfulness practices can help calm the
mind, reduce anxiety, and bring you back to the present moment. Even five minutes a day can teach your brain to let go of constant “what’s next?” thoughts. Over time, this helps your brain relax, reduces stress, and provides a peaceful break from the chaos.

2. Move Your Body
Regular exercise is a natural way to de-stress. Moving your body through walking, yoga, or dance releases endorphins, boosts your mood, and helps you process daily stress. It also supports your immune system and brain, making you more resilient to stress in the future.

3. Harness the Power of Herbs
Herbs such as lavender, chamomile, and passionflower have been used for centuries to help soothe stress. Lavender and chamomile help you relax and sleep, while passionflower boosts calming chemicals in the brain. Try herbal teas, aromatherapy, or essential oils for a natural way to unwind and relax. (Always check with a doctor or consult with a medical professional, even if you are considering herbal remedies.)

4. Unplug & Unwind
If you can’t relax at the end of the day, stress can build up and affect your sleep, mood, and health. Unplug from screens, journal your thoughts, enjoy a nourishing meal, or set aside time for a relaxing bath or your favourite book. These small acts of self-care help you let go of the day and signal to your mind and body that it’s time to rest.

5. Seek Support & Guidance
If you feel like stress is taking over, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional help. Therapists and coaches can help you identify triggers and provide you with tools to manage stress in a healthy way. Asking for support is a sign of strength, not weakness—your well-being matters most.