Taking the perspective "my stress is energizing and motivating" makes a huge difference according to research in the book "Before Happiness" by Shawn Achor. In that book, Achor argues that adopting a "most valuable reality" is the key to reducing the effects of stress and achieving happiness. His book "Happiness" argues that happiness is a necessary precursor to success -- the exact opposite of the "achievement fallacy" I bought into for years: I'll be happy when I get there. Even the old classic "Why Zebras Don't Get Ulcers" includes information on eustress ("good stress").

I've found in my own life that lack of control increases my perception of stress 2-3x times, multiplying exponentially to 20-30x times when fatigued. For example, job loss -- being "forced" into a job I liked less, combined with an early schedule increasing fatigue -- rocked my HPA (hypothalmic-pituitary axis) system until I had severe, chronic depression.

A few months of unemployment and reduced income, despite its stressors, meant sufficient rest and an ability to "take control" over my situation. Then when I had a major life change (divorce), I was able to cope without symptoms of major depression.