Silent Signs of Stress

Stress symptoms may be affecting your health, even though you might not know it. You may blame sickness for that annoying headache, your sleeping troubles, feeling unwell or your lack of focus at work. But stress may really be the cause.

Stress symptoms can affect your body, your thoughts and feelings, and your behaviour. Knowing common stress symptoms can help you manage them. Stress that’s not dealt with can lead to many health problems, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, obesity and diabetes.

Here are some ways stress can affect you:

> Your body – headache, muscle tension, chest pain, fatigue, change in sex drive, stomach upset, sleep problems, getting sick easier due to a weaker immune system

> Your mood – anxiety, restlessness, lack of motivation or focus, memory problems, feeling overwhelmed, grumpiness or anger, sadness or depression

> Your behaviour – overeating or undereating, angry outbursts, drug or alcohol misuse, tobacco use, avoiding friends and staying at home, exercising less often

If you have stress symptoms, act to manage stress. Here are some things to do:

> Get regular physical activity on most days of the week.

> Practise relaxation techniques. Try deep breathing, meditation, yoga, tai chi or massage.

> Keep a sense of humour.

> Spend time with family and friends.

> Set aside time for hobbies. Read a book, listen to music or go for a walk. Schedule time for your passions.

> Write in a journal.

> Get enough sleep.

> Eat a healthy, balanced diet.

> Stay away from tobacco and alcohol use, and use of illegal substances.

– Info from Mayo Clinic