It gets better with age, because, over time, things you worry about actually happen (and other disasters you couldn't imagine too ;) ) and the world doesn't end. "what doesn't kill you makes you stronger". e:g losing your job , this sometimes can be in the long-term a great thing to happen. To fight daily stress consider daily (moderate, nothing crazy) exercise such as walking or swimming, as essential. Treat missing that as seriously as missing your main meal. Exercise helps you sleep better. Your friends are probably right you need a vacation. Perhaps without your phone! I think far too many people worry about being productive. What is the definition of being "productive"? To me that doesn't only include paid work, it might include being a good friend to someone and helping them through their own challenges. Who cares how much code you cranked out this month? There's years of life to spend doing that...