While the widespread perception has always been that stress induces a vast array of health problems — everything from anxiety to fatigue — researchers from Penn State University say that it’s actually the way people react to potentially stressful situations that determines whether they will suffer adverse health effects in the future.

“Our research shows that how you react to what happens in your life today predicts your chronic health conditions and 10 years in the future, independent of your current health and your future stress,” said David Almeida, professor of human development and family studies at Penn State. “For example, if you have a lot of work to do today and you are really grumpy because of it, then you are more likely to suffer negative health consequences 10 years from now than someone who also has a lot of work to do today, but doesn’t let it bother her.” (Huffington Post)

Just before my alarm went off, I opened my eyes and rushed to the bathroom mirror. They were even darker and more pronounced than last night.

This wasn’t a dream.

I ignored my mother’s voice coming from downstairs and stayed with my reflection. Standing frozen, as witness to the aftermath, I stepped outside myself, in awe.