Hey Miss Mary, great question.
I understand from your previous posts that you are a switch and enjoy BDSM from both the top and sub perspective. I can't speak to stress impacting the need/desire to play for a top, but from my own submissive perspective I can say with certainty that stress levels absolutely impact me. My career and personal lives have a long history of being the person "in charge" and making all the important, and difficult, decisions. That obligation creates a high degree of stress that at times is just overpowering. When that happens I know I need to offer myself to a Dominatrix who will accept my surrender and remove all decisions and choices from me during our time together. When the chemistry is right and that Domme has pushed my limits to the point where I am physically and emotionally exhausted, I have a strong sense of peace and feel "grounded", ready to go back to my real life until feeling that stress level returns and I again offer myself up in a long session.
Stress certainly is a driver for me, but I also recognize that I absolutely love BDSM and would be involved in it regardless of the effect of stress in my life. I also think I am fortunate to have BDSM to help manage the stress in my life. Some people are unable to find a way to manage it and suffer severe health consequences while others turn to destructive coping measures such as alcohol or drug abuse, gambling and other damaging behaviors.
