This post is all about Stressed Out Symptoms.
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Ever find yourself feeling like the weight of the world is on your shoulders?
You’re not alone.
We all get stressed out from time to time. In this beginner’s guide, you will learn those telltale signs that stress is knocking at your door, and more importantly, how to give yourself the care you deserve.
Stressed Out Symptoms
1: What is stress?
So, what’s this stress thing, anyway? Well, it’s your body’s way of telling you, “Hey, I’ve got a lot on my plate right now!” Sometimes it’s motivating, but when it piles up, it can wear you down.
Stress can be defined as a state of worry or mental tension caused by a difficult situation. Stress is a natural human response that prompts us to address challenges and threats in our lives. Everyone experiences stress to some degree. – World Health Organization
2: Physical Symptoms
Got a Headache?
You know those headaches that just won’t quit? Stress can bring them on by tensing up the muscles in your neck and shoulders.
Feeling Exhausted?
Stress can be a real snooze-wrecker, keeping you awake at night and leaving you dragging through the day.
Stomach Troubles?
Ever had butterflies or an upset stomach when things get tense? Stress can send your digestive system for a loop, causing nausea or indigestion.
3: Emotional Symptoms
“When stress begins to accumulate from negative or challenging events in life that just keep coming, you can find yourself in a state of feeling emotionally worn out and drained. This is called emotional exhaustion. For most people, emotional exhaustion tends to slowly build up over time. Emotional exhaustion includes emotional, physical and performance symptoms.” – Mayo Clinic
Anxiety: That Nervous Feeling
Stress and anxiety are like best buddies. You might find yourself worrying even when there’s nothing to fret about.
Irritability: The Short Fuse
Stress can turn you into a grumpy bear. Little things can set you off, and that’s okay – it happens to all of us!
Feeling Down?
Long-lasting stress can lead to sadness and hopelessness. If you’re in this place, don’t hesitate to reach out for help.
4: Behavioural Symptoms
Eating Habits All Over the Place
Stress can mess with your appetite. Some people can’t stop munching, while others lose their appetite completely.
Sleeping Problems
Stress can keep you tossing and turning at night or, ironically, make you want to sleep all day. Both can leave you feeling less than your best.
Craving Solitude
Ever feel like you want to be alone when you’re stressed? That’s normal, but try not to isolate yourself for too long.
5: Cognitive Symptoms
Stress can have negative effects on your physical, mental, emotional, and cognitive health. When we talk about the cognitive effects of stress, we’re referring to any manner in which stress affects your brain’s ability to complete tasks, both simple and complex. – Psych Central
Forgetfulness: Where Did I Put That?
Stress can make your brain feel like a jumbled mess. You might misplace your keys more often than usual.
Indecisiveness
Making choices under stress can be like navigating a maze blindfolded. Don’t be too hard on yourself; it happens to the best of us.
Racing Thoughts
Ever get caught up in a tornado of negative thoughts? Stress can have your mind working overtime.
When to Seek Help
If you’re dealing with several of these symptoms for an extended period, it’s time to reach out to a healthcare pro. Chronic stress can lead to more serious health issues, and you deserve support.
6: Coping Strategies
There are many ways that you can cope with stressed out symptoms. Some are healthy while others are not. Binge drinking, partying, isolating yourself and over indulging with junk food are all unhealthy coping strategies.
Better strategies which help you heal faster and feel better quicker are:
- Deep Breathing: Try deep breaths to calm that racing heart.
- Exercise: Moving your body can do wonders for stress. It doesn’t have to be a marathon – even a short walk helps.
- Meditation and Mindfulness: Learning to stay in the moment can soothe that worried mind.
- Eat Right: A balanced diet gives your body the energy it needs to fight stress.
To check out my best self-care ideas for when you are stressed out go here.
Final Thoughts
You’re not alone in this journey. Stress happens to the best of us. The key is knowing how to spot it and what to do about it. When you feel stressed, take a moment to pause, rest and reset. Remember, you’re amazing, and you deserve all the self-care in the world.
This post was all about Stressed Out Symptoms.