Personality disorders are a group of mental health conditions defined by long-lasting patterns of behavior, emotional response, and thinking that differ significantly from societal expectations. These patterns typically emerge in adolescence or early adulthood and can disrupt a person’s relationships, work, and self-image. The causes of personality disorders are complex, involving both inherited traits and life experiences. The authors of the review set out to explore how environmental exposures, such as childhood trauma and chronic stress, might alter the brain at a molecular level, increasing the risk for these disorders.

“The way the human brain adapts to the environment is of great interest in the neuroscience field, especially when exploring new avenues to treat mental health conditions that are currently poorly understood,” said the corresponding authors of the paper, Lorenzo More (a senior lecturer in neuroscience at the University of Central Lancashire), Ilaria Morella (assistant professor in pharmacology at Pavia University), and Andrew Shaw, (a lecturer in biomedical science at Glasgow University).

One of the central themes of the review is how environmental stress can shape the brain’s development through biological changes, a process known as environmental embodiment. The authors examine how specific molecular signaling pathways—namely Ras-ERK, p38, and mTOR—respond to external stimuli. These pathways regulate important brain functions like memory, stress responses, and social behavior. When disrupted, they may contribute to the kinds of emotional instability, impulsivity, and interpersonal difficulties seen in many personality disorders.

The review also discusses how certain chemicals in the brain, including serotonin, dopamine, noradrenaline, oxytocin, and vasopressin, are involved in the development and expression of personality disorder traits. For instance, reduced serotonin activity has been linked to increased impulsivity and emotional instability, while altered dopamine function may affect how people respond to rewards or frustration. Imbalances in oxytocin and vasopressin, which influence bonding and aggression, are believed to underlie some of the social and emotional challenges seen in people with disorders such as borderline or antisocial personality disorder.

The authors draw particular attention to the brain’s energy systems, especially the role of mitochondria—tiny structures within cells that generate energy. These energy-producing systems are not just about keeping neurons running; they also help regulate the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. Studies in both humans and animal models have found that disruptions in mitochondrial function may be associated with traits like impulsivity and aggression. Additionally, the review highlights the role of oxidative stress—when harmful molecules called reactive oxygen species build up in the brain—in influencing how people react to stress and social situations.

Because personality disorders are difficult to model in animals, researchers have turned to studying smaller behavioral traits known as endophenotypes. These include behaviors such as heightened aggression or reduced social interaction. For example, one widely used test involves observing how mice respond to intruders, which gives insight into aggression levels. Although these models cannot capture the full complexity of human personality disorders, they help researchers identify biological mechanisms that might contribute to symptoms.

The review highlights “that antisocial traits — such as disproportionate aggression — which are characteristic of a clinical condition called antisocial personality disorder, result from imbalances in certain brain molecular pathways within cells,” the researchers told PsyPost. “These pathways can be influenced by one’s environment. For example, environments marked by high social competition increase the activity of p38, a ‘pro-stress’ molecular pathway, while reducing the activity of the Ras-ERK ‘anti-stress’ pathway.”

A key innovation discussed in the review is the potential development of “enviromimetic” drugs—medications that mimic the positive effects of healthy environmental experiences. These drugs would not treat symptoms in isolation, but instead activate the same molecular pathways that are engaged by nurturing social experiences or supportive environments. The goal is to reset or strengthen the biological systems involved in emotion regulation and social functioning.

“Targeting key components of the Ras-ERK pathway could enhance its cellular anti-stress effects and potentially reduce aggressive behaviors,” the researchers explained.

Some early examples of such interventions include ampakines—compounds that enhance the activity of specific brain receptors and may improve memory, plasticity, and sociability. Ampakines work by stimulating the Ras-ERK pathway, which is involved in learning and synaptic growth. Similarly, certain nutraceuticals, such as omega-3 fatty acids or saffron extract, may reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which are increasingly recognized as contributors to emotional instability and aggression. These dietary supplements could complement existing therapies by supporting brain health at a cellular level.

The review also introduces a novel experimental compound called RB5, a cell-penetrating peptide that enhances ERK signaling in the brain. By mimicking certain deficiencies in ERK regulation, RB5 increases the activity of pathways involved in synaptic function and gene expression. This type of targeted molecular intervention might eventually help reduce aggressive or antisocial behaviors by recalibrating brain responses to social stimuli.

Looking ahead, the authors stress the need for more precise models of personality disorders that go beyond single traits like aggression. Many features of these disorders—such as a fragile sense of self, chronic feelings of emptiness, or fears of abandonment—are difficult to study in animals, leaving significant gaps in current knowledge. Future research may focus on combining genetic, molecular, and behavioral data to identify biomarkers that can guide personalized treatment strategies.

In particular, more work is needed “to better understand how the human brain encodes the valence of environmental stimuli, and how we can harness this knowledge to develop treatments for affective mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia,” the researchers said.

The review, “Neurobiology, molecular pathways, and environmental influences in antisocial traits and personality disorders,” was authored by Patryk M. Adamczyk, Andrew Shaw, Ilaria M. Morella, and Lorenzo More.

by Eric W. Dolan in Mental Health, Neuroimaging

Image by Wolfgang Eckert from Pixabay

Stress is sometimes considered a good thing, and medical professionals even note that acute stress can help to sharpen focus and compel some to fulfill their full professional potential. However, the Mayo Clinic reports chronic stress bas been linked to a host of serious health problems, including anxiety, depression, digestive issues, and heart disease. The American Institute of Stress notes that work-related stress is a major stressor for professionals.

Embracing strategies to manage work-related stress can help professionals reduce their risk for the serious health conditions that can be brought on by chronic stress.

Monitor your stressors. The American Psychological Association advises professionals to maintain a journal for a week or two in which they document situations that are triggering stress. When documenting stressors, also jot down your responses, feelings and details about the environment, including the people around you, when stress kicked in. Keeping a journal can help identify the sources of stress and determine if there are any patterns that trigger it.

Embrace healthy responses to stress. The APA notes that exercise, yoga or any other form of physical activity are helpful and healthy responses to stress. Too often individuals lean into unhealthy responses, such as drinking alcohol and/or eating unhealthy foods after a stressful workday. But the Cleveland Clinic notes that relying on alcohol as a coping mechanism for stress only exacerbates the feelings of depression and anxiety that stress can trigger.

Establish boundaries between your professional and personal life. The APA notes that the digital era has led many professionals to feel pressured to be available around-the-clock. But work-life boundaries can be vital to combatting career-related stress. Turning off notifications from your work email account at the end of the workday can help to establish a work-life boundary. In addition, resist any temptation to check emails before going to bed, as doing so might trigger stress that makes it hard to fall asleep.

Use your personal/vacation time. The 2024 Sorbet PTO (Paid Time Off) Report found that 62% of professionals did not use all of their PTO in 2023, which marked a 5% increase in unused PTO from the year prior. The APA notes that time off is linked to reduced stress as well as lower rates of heart disease, depression and anxiety. In addition, professionals may or may not be surprised to learn that time off has been linked to improved productivity. Work is a significant source of stress for millions of professionals. Embracing healthy ways to combat work-related stress can benefit your personal and professional life.

By Metro Creative Services  for The Boston Herald

Image by vianamanutencao from Pixabay

According to research from The American Institute of Stress, 83% of U.S. workers report experiencing daily work-related stress, with 39% attributing this stress primarily to their workload. Effective time management then should focus on smarter work practices to reduce overload, can AI help you?

Generative AI and Time Management

Generative AI tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Copilot represent significant advancements in the everyday use of AI. You may be using ChatGPT to write emails and answer challenging questions or Grammarly to check your writing, but AI is much more than that. AI tools can help reshape how you prioritize, execute work, make decisions, or connect thoughts. From smart scheduling apps to intelligent automation systems, these tools can help you optimize your time and focus on high-impact tasks.

Below, I will share some ideas on how you can manage your time more effectively:

1) Smart Scheduling

Everyone should have an AI-powered calendar assistant or task management tool to help you organize your day efficiently and minimize unnecessary meetings. Look for one that allows you to plan your day, blocking the time for doing the more important tasks for you.

For example, tools like Calendly or Google Appointments allow you to share a link to schedule a meeting for free if you choose a basic plan. You can pre-block “power time” to focus on high-priority tasks and avoid meetings at that time; additionally, you can set 15-minutes buffer periods between appointments to avoid back-to-back meetings, or only schedule 45-minutes meetings. Sunsama automatically prompts a routine at the beginning and end of every day, helping you focus, plan day by day and prioritize.

2) Automating Low-Value Tasks to Focus on What Matters

By automating repetitive tasks, you can reduce mental fatigue and focus on tasks that require critical thinking and creativity. Some examples include:

Email Automation

AI tools can sort emails, categorize them, or even respond to simple requests, helping you maintain an empty inbox without spending hours.

Data Entry Automation

Tools like Zapier can automatically turn your email into a task, move tasks from your to-do list to your calendar, automate reminders or do not disturb settings across apps like Slack, Google Tasks or Jira. You don;t even have to read a full book, you can read a summarize version from NotebookLM. Organizations are also using AI agents to support numerous business functions like customer support, supply chain optimization or demand forecasting.

3) Workload Management

AI-driven platforms can help you suggest priorities based on deadlines and project complexity, AI tools like TimeHero can analyze your daily tasks, calendar, and work habits to recommend which tasks need immediate attention, helping you make data-driven decisions about how to allocate your time.

For instance, you can share your to-do list with ChatGPT and ask to suggest what tasks should be tackled first based on deadlines, importance, and estimated time requirements. This eliminates decision fatigue and ensures your energy is spent on the most impactful work. Decision fatigue can also show up when you are writing an important email, so use your favorite AI tool again to avoid overthinking: with the prompt “improve,” you will have a cleaner version.

4) Avoiding Digital Overload

Last, there’s also the risk of becoming overwhelmed by technology, which prevents many people from actually trying these tools. It is all about being aware of how we use them, and learning to use them strategically without becoming overly dependent on them by considering the following:

Use AI for Deep Work

AI should help you stay focused. Use your time management apps to remind you to block time for deep work every day. Deep work gives you a sense of inner satisfaction and a dopamine boost that can energize your day. Automate turning off notifications during deep work (Zapier can automate this if you set the right prompt). I always prefer to keep them in “do not disturb” mode so I can decide when to check them.

Set wrap-up times

Use timers if you spend too much time on one task. The Pomodoro timer is very useful in this case. Sunsama also offers an in-app timer and reminds you to wrap up your day.

You can even use AI to help you improve your sleep to better recharge for the next day. Oniri is an app that utilizes AI to make it easier to remember, understand, and control your dreams, and increase creativity, problem-solving skills and enhance your mood.

Time management in the age of AI and automation is about working smarter, not harder. By embracing these technologies, you can streamline your workload, reduce stress, and focus on what truly matters in your career. The key is balance—using AI to enhance your productivity without losing control or burning out. Take a week to observe how you work, identify your ideal “power time” and ‘wrap-up” time, and ask ChatGPT or Gemini to help find the best tools and automation platforms to work around your style.

For more information about stress-related issues go to STRESS.ORG

Photo by cottonbro studio

By Luciana Paulise for FORBES

Chronic workplace stress can lead to burnout, which manifests through a range of symptoms that can severely impact employee well-being and job performance. As noted by WebMD, typical signs include physical, emotional and mental exhaustion, alongside feelings of cynicism or detachment from work, forgetfulness and diminished motivation.

Additionally, workers may experience stress-related symptoms such as headaches, chronic pain and a sense of being overwhelmed, leading to unhappiness or dissatisfaction in their roles. If left unaddressed, burnout can escalate into more serious mental health issues like depression or anxiety associated with job responsibilities

Implementing stress management strategies is essential for both employees and employers to foster a healthy and productive workplace. One effective approach to managing workload is the use of task management applications.

Task Management Apps

These digital tools can significantly help manage stress by organizing and prioritizing tasks effectively. By breaking down larger projects into smaller, manageable tasks, these apps can reduce the burdensome feelings of dread and panic, allowing users to focus on one task at a time. This provides workers with a sense of control and accomplishment, which can alleviate anxiety associated with deadlines and responsibilities.

Moreover, with features such as reminders and deadlines, users can stay on track and avoid last-minute rushing, further reducing stress. The ability to visualize progress can also enhance motivation and clarity, making it easier to identify what needs attention.

1. TickTick

TickTick is a task management and productivity application designed for both individual and team use.

It allows users to create and organize tasks, set deadlines and manage their schedules seamlessly across multiple devices through cloud synchronization. Key features include the ability to set multiple reminders, create checklists and share task lists for collaboration. TickTick also integrates a calendar view, enabling users to visualize their tasks alongside scheduled events.

The app supports numerous task organization methods, such as tagging and prioritizing tasks, and offers advanced functionalities like a built-in Pomodoro timer for focused work sessions and habit tracking to help users develop new routines. It is available across all platforms.

Pricing: TickTick offers both a Free and Premium pricing plan. The Free plan provides basic task management features, allowing users to create tasks and lists but with limited functionality. The Premium plan is priced at $35.99 per year and includes advanced features such as full calendar functionality, reminders, customizable filters and more.

2. ClickUp

ClickUp is a cloud-based project management tool designed to streamline workflows and enhance team collaboration. It serves as a centralized platform where users can plan projects, manage tasks and communicate with team members.

ClickUp offers an array of features, including customizable task management options like Gantt charts and Kanban boards, which help visualize project progress. The platform also includes automation tools to reduce repetitive tasks, a document editor for collaborative writing and a chat feature to facilitate real-time communication among team members.

ClickUp allows users to create and organize tasks into spaces, folders and lists, providing a clear hierarchy for managing projects of any size. The introduction of AI capabilities generates task descriptions and subtasks, making it easier to manage workloads. ClickUp is available on multiple platforms, including mobile devices, ensuring that users can access their work from anywhere.

Pricing: ClickUp has pricing plans to accommodate different team needs, starting with a Free Forever plan that allows unlimited users and tasks but comes with limited features. The Unlimited plan is priced at $7 per user per month and provides enhanced capabilities like unlimited storage, integrations and dashboards. For teams requiring more advanced tools, the Business plan costs $12 per user per month, offering features such as timelines, advanced time tracking and automation. ClickUp also offers an Enterprise plan with custom pricing tailored to larger organizations.

3. Asana

Asana is a web and mobile platform, powered by artificial intelligence, designed for managing tasks, projects and deadlines. With features such as customizable task views, including lists, calendars and Kanban boards, Asana helps teams break down work into manageable pieces and designate responsibilities across departments.

The platform also includes communication tools so team members can comment on tasks, share files and receive updates on project statuses. Asana also integrates with over 300 applications. Additionally, it offers reporting features that provide insights into team performance and project timelines.

Pricing: Asana offers a tiered pricing structure. The Personal plan is free for individuals and small teams. The Starter plan costs $10.99 per user per month when billed annually (or $13.49 monthly), adding advanced features such as timeline views, custom fields and workflow automation. For larger companies, the Business plan is available at $24.99 per user per month annually (or $30.49 monthly), offering enhanced project management tools like portfolios, time tracking and advanced reporting.

4. Todoist

Todoist is a task management app that helps you keep track of your to-do lists and projects in one place. It allows you to create tasks, set due dates and prioritize them, making it easier to focus on what needs to be done. You can organize tasks into projects, add reminders and even collaborate with others by assigning tasks to team members.

The app has over 80 integrations, so you can access your lists anytime and anywhere. Todoist also features different views, like a simple list or a Kanban board to help you visualize your tasks.

Pricing: Todoist provides a flexible pricing structure with three main plans: Beginner, Pro and Business. The Beginner plan is free and allows users to manage up to five active projects, making it suitable for basic task management. The Pro plan costs $5 per month, or $4 per month if billed annually, and offers expanded features, such as 300 active projects, task reminders, an AI assistant and more. For teams, the Business plan is priced at $8 per user per month or $6 per user per month when billed annually, which includes all Pro features plus support for up to 500 active projects and additional team management tools.

5. OmniFocus

OmniFocus is a task management application designed specifically for busy professionals who need to organize their tasks and projects effectively. It offers a robust set of features that help users capture, manage and prioritize tasks seamlessly across Apple devices, including iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch and Vision Pro.

With OmniFocus, users can create tasks quickly, categorize them into projects and tags and assign due dates or reminders. The app’s unique capabilities include custom perspectives for tailored task views, a forecasting feature to visualize upcoming deadlines and a review system that encourages regular check-ins on project progress.

OmniFocus also emphasizes integration with other Apple applications, enabling users to convert emails or notes into actionable tasks effortlessly. The latest version, OmniFocus 4, introduces enhancements such as a unified interface across devices, improved navigation features and the ability to sync data securely via the Omni Sync Server. This ensures that users can access their task lists anytime, even offline.

Pricing: OmniFocus is available as a one-time purchase or through a subscription model. For the one-time purchase option, users can choose between the Standard license at $74.99 or the Pro license at $149.99. Alternatively, users can opt for a subscription plan priced at $9.99 per month, which unlocks the Pro features on all supported Apple devices and includes access to OmniFocus for the Web. For those who only need web access, a separate web-only subscription is available at $4.99 per month.

For more information about stress-related issues go to STRESS.ORG

By Jack Kelly  for Forbes

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio

I recently cited the 2024 results of the American Psychiatric Association’s (APA) annual mental health poll show that U.S. adults are feeling increasingly anxious. In 2024, almost half (43%) of the American population say they feel more anxious than they did the previous year, up from 37% in 2023 and 32% in 2022. On a global scale, the APA study finds that Americans are anxious about current events (70%), the economy (77%), the upcoming United States presidential election (73%) and gun violence (69%). Other anxiety provoking issues weighing on the American workforce are global conflict, racism and political conflicts, mass shootings, climate-related disasters and a turbulent economy. I described an easy and useful tool to mitigate anxiety in a recent piece for Forbes.com.

Some Employees Battle ‘Productivity Anxiety’ Daily

Now there’s more data showing that “productivity anxiety”—the feeling that there is always more you should be doing—is pervasive in the workplace in this country. A Workhuman survey of 1,000 full time employees found that 61% of U.S. workers say they’re productive at work, but it comes at a cost. A total of 80% report they have “productivity anxiety” and over one-third have it multiple times a week.

“Productivity anxiety” is higher among Gen Z with 30% battling it daily and 58% having it numerous times a week. Meeting deadlines is the leading indicator of having “a good day” (68%), and making mistakes tops the list as a sign of a “bad day” at work (49%).

I spoke by email with Dr. Meisha-Ann Martin, senior director of people analytics and research at Workhuman. Martin told me that “productivity anxiety” is a global phenomenon and that Americans especially are obsessed with productivity and the hustle culture. She acknowledges that our fixation on productivity prioritizes output over well-being, leading to burnout, stress and a diminished quality of life. Martin believes the challenge is finding a balance that promotes efficiency and success without compromising mental and physical health.

“Driven by the tech boom of the 1990s, hustle culture has glamorized overworking, promoting the idea that constant productivity is a badge of honor that sits at the cornerstone of success and innovation,” she says. “This narrative teaches employees that to achieve their professional goals, they must constantly strive to perform better, often at the expense of personal well-being and mental health.”

Dawa Tarchin Phillips, CEO of TAIWA, underscores the transformative potential of AI coaching in the workplace. “Utilizing professional AI coaching in the workplace is a great way for people to learn new skills without hassle, placing your personal and professional growth right at your fingertips,” says Phillips. “These online AI coaches can be personalized to how each employee learns, giving them exactly what they need, when they need it, to develop, evolve and be successful.”

The Impact of Burnout on the Economy

The economic implications of employee burnout are profound. Burnout leads to increased absenteeism, reduced productivity, and higher healthcare costs. According to The American Institute of Stress, job stress costs U.S. businesses over $300 billion annually due to absenteeism, turnover, diminished productivity, and medical expenses. As companies grapple with these costs, the search for effective solutions has become more urgent.

AI Coaching as a Solution

AI coaching offers a promising solution to mitigate burnout by providing personalized support and development opportunities for employees. Unlike traditional coaching methods, AI coaches are available 24/7 and can tailor their advice to the unique needs of each employee. This flexibility and personalization can help employees manage stress, develop new skills, and achieve their professional goals more efficiently.

Phillips highlights the dual benefits of AI coaching: skill development and employee well-being. “Valuing and respecting employees’ time should be one of the major priorities for a company, and having AI coaching systems like these is a great way to help people feel supported and good about themselves in a professional setting,” he explains. When employees feel seen, validated, and given opportunities to grow, they are more likely to stay with the company and remain productive.

Case Studies and Real-world Applications

Several companies have already begun to integrate AI coaching into their employee development programs with promising results. For example, IBM has implemented AI-driven coaching to support employee growth and development. Their AI platform provides personalized learning recommendations, tracks progress, and offers real-time feedback. This approach has helped IBM employees enhance their skills and stay engaged with their work.

Another example is BetterUp, a company that provides AI-powered coaching services to improve employee performance and well-being. Their platform uses AI to match employees with coaches who can best meet their needs, providing personalized support that helps employees overcome challenges and achieve their goals.

The Future of AI Coaching

As AI technology continues to advance, its applications in employee development are likely to expand. AI coaches could become even more sophisticated, offering deeper insights and more personalized support. Companies that adopt these technologies early will have a competitive advantage in attracting and retaining top talent.

Phillips envisions a future where AI coaching is a standard part of employee development programs. “When employees feel seen, validated, supported, and given opportunities to grow and accomplish their goals, they are more likely to work hard and not search for something better. It’s a give and take. If companies are not already using these AI systems to support their people, then they are missing out.”

Conclusion

The rise of AI coaching represents a significant shift in how companies can address employee burnout and enhance productivity. By providing personalized support and development opportunities, AI coaches can help employees manage stress, develop new skills, and stay engaged with their work. As companies navigate the challenges of a rapidly changing economy, investing in AI coaching could be a key strategy for maintaining a healthy, productive workforce.

For companies looking to remain competitive and support their employees’ well-being, integrating AI coaching into their development programs is not just an option—it’s becoming a necessity. As Phillips and others in the field have pointed out, the benefits of AI coaching extend beyond individual growth to encompass broader organizational success.

Photo by fauxels

For additional information about stress, and stress-related issues go to THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF STRESS.

By Adriaan Brits for TechBullion

According to the website Workable.com, the most unruly commutes can adversely affect one’s mental health, with the longest daily to-and-from trips often disrupting one’s life/work balance and leading to burnout. Aside from the inconvenience and frustration suffered from sitting in one’s vehicle going no place fast, difficult commutes can trigger anxiety caused by what amounts to a loss of control, leading to feelings of powerlessness and frustration. Perhaps not surprisingly, a University of Montreal study showed that those subjected to the longest commutes have a more likely chance of experiencing chronic stress.

Increased congestion on the nation’s highways, which combined with lingering high gas prices, and rising auto insurance rates and ongoing operating costs are making Americans’ daily commutes more arduous than ever. But motorists in some parts of the nation – and in other countries – tend to fare more or less anxious behind the wheel than others.

Measuring Highway Stress Levels

According to a study of commutes in the 30 largest cities in North America, the U.K. and Europe conducted by the personal finance site MoneySuperMarket.com, the most-horrific of the bunch in the U.S. can be found in the Los Angeles metro area, which the website regards as the second most stressful daily ride on the planet, second only to London.

Global metropolitan areas are ranked according to their applicable “Stress Scores,” which were determined by meticulously using monitors to track the heart rate (BPM) and heart rate variance (HRV) experienced by 300 drivers over a five-day period across the 30 largest cities in North America, the U.K. and Europe. For the uninitiated, the former is a measurement of how fast one’s heart is beating, which is generally lower when one is relaxed, while the latter measures the time between beats per minute, with lower levels indicating higher stress levels.

Drivers in London, which tops the chart, recorded a Stress Score of 92 out of a possible 100 points. Traffic congestion was found to raise the average Londoner’s resting heart rate by 25% (18 BPM), while also causing heart rate variance to dip by 33%.

Traffic was cited as being a major source of highway stress by 54% of respondents, followed by the questionable ability of other drivers at 52% and road layouts and conditions at 26%.

By contrast, Stockholm is least stressful major city for commuters with a score of just 12/100. This results from a nominal 3% increase in heart rates while driving and a slim 5% drop in HRV, both of which indicate low stress levels behind the wheel. We’re featuring lists of the most, and least onerous round trips both here and abroad below.

Coping Skills

How to best cope with the burgeoning burnout resulting from an especially grueling daily battle through traffic congestion? Assuming either taking public transportation or carpooling is not an option, the recruiting firm Robert Half offers these tips to help car-bound workers deal with the inevitable traffic tie-ups:

• Leave 15 minutes earlier. Pushing one’s self out the door ahead of schedule can help lead to less-exhausting travel times.
• Be strategic. Try alternate routes and traveling to and from work at different times of the day and plan around the combination that yields the least congestion, though this likely necessitates having a more-flexible work schedule than some employers may allow.
• Keep a regular schedule. That said, some commuters find it difficult on their mental and physical well-being to maintain a variable schedule, in which case maintaining set wake-up and departure times can be less stressful in the long run.
• Take control of the environment. Adjust the driver’s seat for maximum comfort and enjoy a relaxing (or stimulating) music genre, listen to podcasts or audio books or catch up with calls (hands-free, of course) to friends or family to more-pleasantly pass the time.
• Pack snacks. Sitting in traffic is bad enough, but it can become that much more stressful if one is hungry. Keep protein bars and bottles of water in the car or a desk drawer for a boost before taking the long road home.

The Most Stressful Commutes In The U.S.

These are the U.S. cities in which drivers face the most nerve-wracking daily commutes, with their Stress Scores, based upon measured heart rates and heart rate variances of 300 drivers over a five-day period across the 30 largest cities in North America, the U.K. and Europe:

1. Los Angeles: 84/100
2. San Francisco: 78/100
3. New York: 64/100
4. Miami: 51/100
5. Philadelphia: 48/100
6. Boston: 40/100

The Worst Cities Outside The U.S. For Commuters

Think your daily commute is bad? These are the world capitals in which a daily trip to and from the office can be especially challenging:

1. London, England: 92/100
2. Paris, France: 84/100
3. Cardiff, Wales: 67/100
4. Rome, Italy: 55/100
5. Glasgow, Scotland: 55/100
6. Istanbul, Turkey: 54/100
7. Bristol, England: 52/100

The Least-Stressful World Cities In Which To Drive To Work

Here’s where commuters have the easiest daily commutes with their minimal Stress Scores noted:

Stockholm. Sweden: 12/100

Berlin, Germany: 15/100

Toronto, Canada: 15/100

Montreal, Canada: 22/100

Sydney, Australia: 24/100

Brussels, Bekgium: 26/100

Leeds, England: 26/100

Edinburgh, Scotland: 28 /100

Manchester, England: 28 /100

Dublin, Ireland: 29 /100

For more information about stress-related issues visit The American Institute of Stress.

By Jim Gorzelany for Forbes

Photo by Stan

Original post-Science News

Photo by Eugene Capon