Most people feel overloaded in their everyday lives. Where does that come from? The psychoneuroimmunologist Eva Peters researches stress and its consequences on the body and psyche. In the interview she explains what the biggest stress factor is and how to have a relaxed Christmas season.

THE TIME: Ms. Peters, according to one current study Two thirds of Germans are under pressure in everyday life or at work. Many people feel overloaded, especially at the end of the year. Is there a healthy amount? stress?

Eva Peters: There is even a necessary level of stress. We are built to constantly take on new tasks. Getting out of bed in the morning is the first challenge. Then it continues: We have to eat, have relationships, and get enough sleep. Stress per se is neither bad nor good, but rather something neutral.