Stress is able to affect various aspects of life. No part of our body is immune to stress.
Your symptoms can go unnoticed or even be the result of another medical condition, therefore it is advised to consult with your doctor should you experience any of the following symptoms, particularly if you are experiencing more than one over a prolonged period of time. There are a variety of symptoms of stress, grouped accordingly:
Physical symptoms of stress
- Lack of energy
- Headaches
- Constipation
- Diarrhoea
- Nausea
- Weight gain
- Tense muscles
- Rapid heartbeat that doesn’t return to normal
- Sleep apnoea
- Constant infections and flu
- Loss of libido
- Feeling anxious and nervous, shaking
- Difficulty in swallowing, dry mouth
- Grinding teeth and clenching your jaw
Emotional symptoms of stress
- Becoming easily frustrated and feeling moody
- Feeling overwhelmed, needing to take control or a loss of control
- Finding it hard to relax
- Low self-esteem
- Avoiding social interactions with others
Behavioural symptoms associated with stress
- Loss or increase in appetite
- Avoiding duties and responsibilities
- Increased intake of drugs (alcohol and cigarettes)
- Nervous behaviour such as nail biting, pacing and fidgeting
Cognitive symptoms linked to stress
- Inability to concentrate
- Constantly worried
- Lack of judgement
- Pessimism - only seeing the negative side