Mental Health

Here are the Most Common Symptoms of Stress

By Dynne C. | Update Date: Jun 03, 2024 10:02 PM EDT

Stress presents itself in multiple forms, impacting mental and physical health.

About Stress

Stress is the body's response to perceived challenges or threats, triggering a series of physiological and psychological changes. These changes prepare the body to respond to danger, known as the fight-or-flight response. Stress can be caused by various factors such as work pressures, personal relationships, and financial issues.

Common Emotional and Cognitive Symptoms

Anxiety and Nervousness

Stress often leads to feelings of anxiety and nervousness. People might feel a constant sense of worry or dread.

Irritability and Anger

Increased irritability and anger are common responses to stress, making people more prone to outbursts.

Difficulty Concentrating

Stress can make it hard to focus, leading to forgetfulness and decreased productivity.

Depression and Low Mood

Ongoing stress can result in emotions of sorrow, despair, and even clinical depression.

Fatigue

Stress can drain energy, causing chronic fatigue and a feeling of being overwhelmed.

Sleep Disturbances

Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing restless sleep are common among stressed people.

Changes in Eating Habits

Stress can lead to changes in appetite, resulting in overeating or loss of appetite.

Increased Alcohol or Drug Use

Some may turn to alcohol or drugs as a coping mechanism for stress and with increased levels of stress, the more they indulge in alcohol or drugs.

Common Physical Symptoms

Muscular Tension

Stress often causes tension in muscles, particularly in the shoulders, back, and jaw.

Headaches

Stress can trigger tension headaches or migraines.

Gastrointestinal Issues

Symptoms like acid reflux, stomachache, constipation, or diarrhea can result from stress.

Increased Heart Rate and Blood Pressure

Stress can elevate heart rate and blood pressure, posing risks to cardiovascular health.

Sweating and Dry Mouth

These are typical physical responses to stress.

Heart Palpitations

Stress can cause irregular heartbeats or a feeling of the heart racing.

Lowered Immunity

Long-term stress can compromise the immune system, increasing vulnerability to illnesses.

Skin Rashes

Stress can exacerbate skin conditions, leading to rashes and other dermatological issues.

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