Which of the following is NOT a consequence of stress?

Stress can lead to various negative health outcomes, but improved focus and memory is not one of them. In fact, while acute stress may sometimes enhance focus due to the body’s fight-or-flight mechanism, chronic stress typically hampers cognitive functions, including memory and concentration. Elevated stress levels can adversely affect how the brain processes and retains information, leading to difficulties in memory recall and cognitive performance.

In contrast, the other options reflect established consequences of stress. For instance, stress is known to increase the risk of cardiovascular disease due to prolonged elevated levels of stress hormones, which can strain the heart and blood vessels. Furthermore, stress can weaken the immune system, leading to higher susceptibility to infections such as colds and flu. Additionally, muscle tension is a common physical response to stress, resulting from the body’s preparation to react to perceived threats. Therefore, the option indicating improved focus and memory stands out as the only incorrect consequence associated with stress.