Which of the following is an example of a cognitive stressor?

A cognitive stressor primarily relates to how we think and perceive our situations. Poor self-esteem is a strong example of this because it can lead to negative thought patterns, impacting how an individual views themselves and their abilities. This continuous cycle of negative self-evaluation can create significant stress and anxiety, affecting mental health and leading to difficulties in various aspects of life.

In contrast, while financial difficulties, job loss, and chronic illness are certainly stress-inducing, they represent external stressors rather than cognitive ones. These factors may cause stress through their effects on a person's life circumstances but do not inherently stem from the individual's thought patterns or cognitive processes. Therefore, poor self-esteem as a cognitive stressor highlights the importance of mental perceptions in the overall stress response.