IDENTIFYING WARNING SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF STRESS

COGNITIVE SYMPTOMS          

  • Memory problems                                    
  • Indecisiveness 
  • Inability to concentrate                                     
  • Trouble thinking clearly                             
  • Poor judgment                                           
  • Seeing only the negative                           
  • Anxious or racing thoughts                      
  • Constant worrying                                     
  • Loss of objectivity                                     
  • Fearful anticipation                                    

EMOTIONAL SYMPTOMS                    

  • Moodiness
  • Agitation
  • Restlessness
  • Short temper
  • Irritability, impatience
  • Inability to relax
  • Feeling tense and “on edge”
  • Feeling overwhelmed
  • Sense of loneliness and isolation
  • Depression or general unhappiness

     PHYSICAL SYMPTOMS

  • Headaches or backaches
  • Muscle tension and stiffness
  • Diarrhea or constipation
  • Nausea, dizziness
  • Insomnia
  • Chest pain, rapid heartbeat
  • Weight gain or loss
  • Skin breakouts (hives, eczema)
  • Loss of sex drive
  • Frequent colds

 BEHAVIORAL SYMPTOMS

  • Eating more or less
  • Sleeping too much or too little
  • Isolating yourself from others
  • Procrastination, neglecting responsibilities
  • Using alcohol, cigarettes, or drugs to relax
  • Nervous habits (e.g. nail biting, pacing)
  • Teeth grinding or jaw clenching
  • Overdoing activities (e.g. exercising, shopping)
  • Overreacting to unexpected problems
  • Picking fights with others