{"id":887321,"date":"2026-04-11T17:45:18","date_gmt":"2026-04-11T17:45:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/887321\/"},"modified":"2026-04-11T17:45:18","modified_gmt":"2026-04-11T17:45:18","slug":"top-10-most-stressful-life-events-ranked-and-how-to-cope-with-them","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/887321\/","title":{"rendered":"Top 10 most stressful life events ranked and how to cope with them"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Experts have revealed the top 10 most stressful life events a person can experience &#8211; but they say there are simple ways to cope that can make them feel far less overwhelming<img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Portrait of a upset couple sitting on the bed after having a conflict\" loading=\"eager\"  src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/1_Frustrated-man-sitting-on-edge-of-bed.jpg\" \/><\/p>\n<p aria-label=\"The most stressful events a person can go through have been ranked (stock image)\" class=\"ImageCaption_caption-title__ccyQU\" data-testid=\"caption-title\">The most stressful events a person can go through have been ranked (stock image)(Image: Getty Images\/Tetra images RF)<\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\">While everyone experiences <a aria-label=\"stressLink opens in a new tab.\" class=\"TextLink_text-link__dBSS0 TextLink_enabled__dJF3l\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mirror.co.uk\/news\/health\/im-doctor-ancient-herb-can-36947939?utm_source=mynewsassistant.com&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=embedded_search_item_desktop\" rel=\"follow nofollow noopener\" tabindex=\"0\" target=\"_blank\">stress<\/a> differently, <a aria-label=\"some life events can seem to hit harder than othersLink opens in a new tab.\" class=\"TextLink_text-link__dBSS0 TextLink_enabled__dJF3l\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mirror.co.uk\/news\/health\/women-told-1-symptom-should-36878772\" rel=\"follow nofollow noopener\" tabindex=\"0\" target=\"_blank\">some life events can seem to hit harder than others<\/a> &#8211; often leaving people feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or unsure of what to do next. From starting a new job, to dealing with grief, these moments can completely shift your routine, mindset and emotional wellbeing.<\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\">While they are a natural part of life, knowing why they feel so intense &#8211; and how to navigate them &#8211; <a aria-label=\"can make all the difference.Link opens in a new tab.\" class=\"TextLink_text-link__dBSS0 TextLink_enabled__dJF3l\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mirror.co.uk\/lifestyle\/my-daughter-having-period-cramps-36977335\" rel=\"follow nofollow noopener\" tabindex=\"0\" target=\"_blank\">can make all the difference.<\/a> Discussing the topic online, people have been sharing their own experiences and what they believe to be the most stressful moments a person can face.<\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\">Commenting on this, one <a aria-label=\"RedditLink opens in a new tab.\" class=\"TextLink_text-link__dBSS0 TextLink_enabled__dJF3l\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mirror.co.uk\/all-about\/reddit\" rel=\"follow nofollow noopener\" tabindex=\"0\" target=\"_blank\">Reddit<\/a> user said: \u201cI would think the death of your child would be more <a aria-label=\"stressfulLink opens in a new tab.\" class=\"TextLink_text-link__dBSS0 TextLink_enabled__dJF3l\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mirror.co.uk\/news\/health\/i-used-chronically-stressed-cutting-35796915?utm_source=mynewsassistant.com&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=embedded_search_item_desktop\" rel=\"follow nofollow noopener\" tabindex=\"0\" target=\"_blank\">stressful<\/a> than any of those.\u201d Another said they believe going to jail is probably the most stressful thing that can happen to a person. They added: &#8220;But I\u2019m gonna add loss of home in a fire &#8211; pretty stressful. We were lucky no one hurt and mostly water damage, but it still sucked.\u201d<\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\">A third user said: \u201cI\u2019m very blessed and have only been through job loss. That was not very stressful as I\u2019m in a career where it\u2019s easy to find a new position.\u201d<\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\">According to experts at Benenden Health, here are 10 of the most stressful life events \u2013 starting from number 10 and working up to the most difficult.<\/p>\n<p><strong class=\"Strong_strong__e2x35\">10. Starting a new job<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\">Beginning a new role can feel daunting, from meeting new colleagues to learning unfamiliar systems. The pressure to make a good impression can add to the stress.<\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\"><strong class=\"Strong_strong__e2x35\">How to cope:<\/strong> Give yourself time to settle in, ask questions, and remember that no one expects perfection on day one.<\/p>\n<p><strong class=\"Strong_strong__e2x35\">9. Having a child<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\">While incredibly joyful, becoming a parent brings with it sleepless nights, new responsibilities, and constant worry.<\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\"><strong class=\"Strong_strong__e2x35\">How to cope:<\/strong> Accept help from others, rest when you can, and don\u2019t be afraid to admit when you\u2019re struggling.<\/p>\n<p><strong class=\"Strong_strong__e2x35\">8. Reading or watching the news<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\">Constant exposure to negative headlines can take a toll on your mental health.<\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\"><strong class=\"Strong_strong__e2x35\">How to cope: <\/strong>Limit your intake, take breaks from social media, and focus on things within your control.<\/p>\n<p><strong class=\"Strong_strong__e2x35\">7. Buying a house<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\">From financial pressure to legal processes, buying a home can quickly become overwhelming.<\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\"><strong class=\"Strong_strong__e2x35\">How to cope:<\/strong> Stay organised, ask for professional advice, and take things step by step.<\/p>\n<p><strong class=\"Strong_strong__e2x35\">6. Exams and studying<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\">The pressure to perform well can lead to anxiety and burnout, especially for students.<\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\"><strong class=\"Strong_strong__e2x35\">How to cope:<\/strong> Create a realistic study plan, take regular breaks, and avoid comparing yourself to others.<\/p>\n<p><strong class=\"Strong_strong__e2x35\">5. Divorce<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\">The end of a relationship can bring emotional pain, financial strain and major life changes.<\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\"><strong class=\"Strong_strong__e2x35\">How to cope: <\/strong>Seek support from friends, family or professionals, and give yourself time to heal.<\/p>\n<p><strong class=\"Strong_strong__e2x35\">4. Change in a relationship<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\">Whether it\u2019s a breakup or shifting dynamics, uncertainty can be difficult to navigate.<\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\"><strong class=\"Strong_strong__e2x35\">How to cope: <\/strong>Communicate openly and focus on what you can control.<\/p>\n<p><strong class=\"Strong_strong__e2x35\">3. Issues at work<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\">Conflict with colleagues, job insecurity or heavy workloads can all contribute to stress.<\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\"><strong class=\"Strong_strong__e2x35\">How to cope: <\/strong>Set boundaries, speak up when needed, and prioritise work-life balance.<\/p>\n<p><strong class=\"Strong_strong__e2x35\">2. Financial challenges<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\">Money worries can affect every aspect of life, from daily living to long-term plans.<\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\"><strong class=\"Strong_strong__e2x35\">How to cope:<\/strong> Create a budget, seek financial advice, and tackle problems one step at a time.<\/p>\n<p><strong class=\"Strong_strong__e2x35\">1. The death of a family member or friend<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\">Grief is often considered the most intense form of stress, bringing a mix of emotions that can be hard to process.<\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\"><strong class=\"Strong_strong__e2x35\">How to cope: <\/strong>Allow yourself to grieve, lean on loved ones, and consider professional support if needed.<\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\">While these experiences can feel overwhelming in the moment, many people come out the other side stronger. Understanding that stress is a shared human experience &#8211; and knowing when to ask for help &#8211; can make even the toughest moments feel a little more manageable.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Experts have revealed the top 10 most stressful life events a person can experience &#8211; but they say&hellip;\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":887322,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":"","_share_on_mastodon":"0"},"categories":[4317],"tags":[2420,1806,105,218,35961,224,4920,16,15],"class_list":["post-887321","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-mental-health","tag-parenting","tag-divorce","tag-health","tag-mental-health","tag-redundancy","tag-relationships","tag-stress","tag-uk","tag-united-kingdom"],"share_on_mastodon":{"url":"https:\/\/pubeurope.com\/@uk\/116387324369076317","error":""},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/887321","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=887321"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/887321\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/887322"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=887321"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=887321"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=887321"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}