Watch Stressed

Stressed is a 2019 documentary film that sheds light on the damaging effects of stress on the human mind and body. The film is directed by Luke Segreto and stars Andrew Newberg, Daniel Monti, and Scott Walker. The film opens with a stark reminder of the impact of stress on modern life. In the United States alone, stress is responsible for over 120,000 deaths each year, more than the number of fatalities caused by diabetes, Alzheimer's, and influenza. The film then proceeds to examine the neurochemical and physiological changes that occur in the body during periods of prolonged stress.

The documentary makes use of cutting-edge imaging technology to reveal the effects of chronic stress on the brain. Through brain scans and experiments on mice, the film shows how chronic stress can lead to the depletion of gray matter in the brain, particularly in the prefrontal cortex, amygdala, and hippocampus. This damage can have long-term effects on cognitive function, memory, and emotional regulation, and can even lead to the onset of mental illness.

One of the key themes of the film is the need for individuals to take control of their own stress levels. Experts interviewed in the film argue that stress is not necessarily an inevitable part of modern life if individuals take positive steps to manage their stress levels. The film offers a range of coping strategies, including mindfulness, yoga, exercise, and social support.

One particularly fascinating segment of the film explores the role of diet in stress management. The film examines the connection between stress and inflammation, and how certain foods can either exacerbate or alleviate the effects of stress on the body. The film advocates for a diet rich in healthy fats, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants, which can help to reduce inflammation and promote mental well-being.

A significant portion of the film is devoted to the subject of workplace stress. The film argues that modern workplaces can often be toxic environments that place excessive demands on employees, leading to burnout, anxiety, and depression. The film showcases several companies that have taken innovative steps to reduce workplace stress, including offering health and wellness programs, flexible working hours, and well-designed workspaces.

Throughout the film, a number of experts weigh in on the subject of stress, including doctors, psychologists, and neuroscientists. These experts stress the importance of taking a holistic view of stress management, incorporating both physical and mental health strategies. They also emphasize the role of social support in stress management, encouraging individuals to seek out supportive communities and build meaningful relationships.

The film concludes with a call to action, urging individuals to take responsibility for their own stress levels and advocating for systemic change to reduce the prevalence of toxic stress in society. The film encourages viewers to prioritize their own well-being and find ways to cultivate resilience in the face of life's challenges.

Overall, Stressed is a powerful and informative documentary that highlights the urgent need for individuals and society as a whole to address the damaging effects of stress on our mental and physical health. The film offers a range of practical strategies for stress management, providing hope and inspiration for viewers looking to improve their own well-being.

Stressed is a 2019 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 2 minutes. It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 4.3.