Figure 3. The potential behavioral effects of chronic stress are depicted. Chronic stress is associated with both higher tension and decrease energy, which predisposes to states of "tense–tiredness" and negative moods. As a consequence, patients with chronic stress may be more susceptible to depression, adverse behaviors that may be used to diminish tense–tiredness or negative mood states (e.g., eating or smoking), and less energy for adhering to healthy behavioral suggestions.