Daily simple routines that could be quietly adding to your stress
By Katemarthason Okudo, June 8, 2026Stress is often linked to major life events such as financial pressure, work demands, or family challenges. However, health experts say that some of the habits people practise every day can also contribute to rising stress levels without them noticing.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), stress is a natural response to challenges and difficult situations. While short-term stress can help people stay alert, prolonged stress may affect both physical and mental health, making it harder to relax, sleep, and concentrate.
Constantly checking your phone
Many people begin and end their day by scrolling through social media, reading emails, or checking news updates. While staying informed is important, excessive screen time can keep the brain in a constant state of alertness.
The WHO noted that spending too much time following news and social media content can increase stress levels, especially when the information is negative or overwhelming. Frequent notifications can also make it difficult for the mind to switch off and rest.
Poor sleep habits
Going to bed late, sleeping irregularly, or spending time on electronic devices before sleep can contribute to stress. Sleep gives the body and mind time to recover from the demands of the day.
Getting enough sleep is important for both body and mind. Sleep repairs, relaxes, and rejuvenates our body, and can help reverse the effects of stress. Experts recommend maintaining a consistent sleep schedule and reducing screen use before bedtime to support better mental well-being.
Skipping breaks and overloading your schedule
Many people move from one task to another without taking time to rest. Whether at work, school or home, a packed schedule can leave little room for recovery.
Health specialists warn that constantly feeling rushed may keep the body’s stress response activated for longer periods. Over time, this can contribute to irritability, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. A health expert noted that prolonged stress can become overwhelming when people are unable to adapt or recover from daily pressures.
Too much caffeine and poor eating patterns
Missing meals, relying on sugary snacks, or consuming large amounts of caffeine may also affect stress levels. These habits can lead to energy crashes and make the body feel more tense and anxious.
Maintaining regular meals, staying hydrated, and eating a balanced diet can help stabilise energy levels throughout the day and support overall well-being.
Lack of physical activity
A sedentary lifestyle not only affects physical health. Research shows that regular movement can help the brain manage stress more effectively.
Simple activities such as walking, stretching, cycling, or light exercise can improve mood and reduce some of the effects of daily stress. Physical activity has been linked to better mental health and improved resilience during challenging periods.
Stress is not always caused by major events. Sometimes it builds gradually through routines that seem harmless. Chronic stress has been associated with sleep problems, headaches, digestive issues, anxiety, and difficulties with memory and focus.