Knock Out Stress: Signs of Stress

Do you know how to recognize the signs of stress?  Stress not only affects your emotional well-being, but can also materialize into physical symptoms affecting various systems in the body.  It is important to be able to recognize when your body is responding to stress and take steps to reduce your stress level before it can have have long term impact on your health.

According to the American Psychological Association, typical signs of stress include:

• headaches, muscle tension, or back pain

• upset stomach

• dry mouth

• chest pains, rapid heart beat

• sleep problems

• fatigue

• overeating or under eating

• higher susceptibility to illnesses like the common cold

• lack of concentration/focus

• forgetfulness

• irritability

• anxiety

If you are able to recognize symptoms of stress, they can be treated before leading to more serious health issues.  If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms and feel stress may be a factor, seek help from a therapist if necessary or try some of the tips you’ll find in this blog series.  Whatever you do, don’t ignore your body’s signals that some TLC is needed.

“Listening to the Warning Signs of Stress.”American Psychological Association.  Retrieved August 18, 2013 from  http://www.apa.org/helpcenter/stress-signs.aspx.