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What are the signs and symptoms of stress that I need to be aware of?

  • Janine Miller
  • Aug 30, 2021
  • 1 min read

We all experience stress differently in different situations.

So we all have our own unique collection of signs that indicate that we could be experiencing excess-stress.

Stress can affect us physically and emotionally, and it can impact our behaviour. Sometimes we can quickly recognise the signs that we are experiencing excess-stress. And sometimes it builds up over time and we don’t notice until we feel we’re at breaking point.

Below are some of the signs and symptoms of excess-stress. However, it’s important to note that having any of these symptoms doesn’t necessarily mean you are experiencing excess-stress and there may be other reasons. If you are concerned we would always recommend you check with your doctor to investigate possible reasons.

How we might feel (emotional signs):

  • Excessive worry or fear

  • Increased irritability

  • Frequent low mood

  • Easily frustrated

  • Low motivation

  • Difficulty relaxing

  • Feeling of losing control or wanting to take control

How we might act (behavioural signs):

  • Over- or under-eating

  • Increased use of stimulants such as alcohol, drugs or cigarettes

  • Poor concentration

  • Forgetfulness and/or disorganisation

  • Poor judgement

  • Social withdrawal

How we might be physically affected:

  • Headaches

  • Rapid heartbeat and shallow breathing

  • Sweating

  • Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep

  • Muscle tension

  • Chronic pain e.g. ongoing backache

  • Digestive problems

  • Susceptibility to illness

  • Acne

  • Decreased energy

  • Loss of sexual desire

  • Chest pain

  • High blood pressure


It’s important to pay attention to our own individual reactions to excess-stress. It can be helpful to write a note to ourselves that we check from time to time. Using the signs and symptoms above, write a list of how you know when you’re experiencing an overwhelming amount of stress.



First published at nisad.ngo on 8 July 2020.

 
 
 

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©2025 by Janine Miller

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Janine Miller UKCP accredited psychotherapist
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