What is a common relational impact of stress?

Stress often leads to feelings of isolation and loneliness, which can impact relationships significantly. When individuals experience high levels of stress, they may withdraw from social interactions as a coping mechanism. This withdrawal can lead to a decrease in communication with friends, family, and loved ones, creating a barrier that fosters feelings of loneliness.

Additionally, stressed individuals might struggle to engage with others emotionally, feeling overwhelmed or unable to connect. This can further exacerbate feelings of isolation since they might avoid reaching out or expressing their needs to others. As a result, the relational impact of stress commonly manifests as isolation and loneliness, making it difficult for stressed individuals to maintain their usual social dynamics.