The study examined the relationships of resources, chronic activated distress, and fatigue. Data acquisition was carried out by a market research institute in a multitopic questionnaire in the general population (N=2 552). Administered were the TICS, the CFS-Scale, and the SWOP. The analyses focused on structural equation modelling. Hypotheses derived from a demands-resources model proved to be most worthwhile. Especially dispositional optimism, seemed to be most relevant. The prevalence rate for elevated chronic stress was 19.1%. Group differences were significant for age but not for gender. Part-time worker exhibited the highest rates of chronic stress. A lower social economic status also favoured an increased chronic stress experience. Theoretical implications, practical consequences for health promotion and prevention as well as limitations of the study are discussed.