In general, I fell in line with the poll when citing barriers to making "lasting lifestyle and behavior changes." Lack of willpower. (Check.) Not enough time. (Check.) Lack of confidence. (Check.) I would offer, though, that most of us simply call willful, confident people with time on their hands "millionaires."
The underlying concern, says the APA, is how long-term stress contributes to chronic health disorders. (Talk to a psychologist for more information!) No doubt. But according to a recent NBC report, some researchers believe temporary increases in stress can strengthen the immune system, help fight Alzheimer's disease and keep your brain cells busy. Another study suggested that stress can help prevent breast cancer.
Research out of Johns Hopkins University, the piece went on to explain, found that children of mothers with higher levels of stress during pregnancy were developmentally ahead of those of women with low levels.
Mind you, I have no standing to challenge Big Psychology on these numbers. All I'm saying, after gathering this anecdotal evidence, is that those of you who aren't stressed-out are probably the ones in need of a psychologist.