Signs and Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of stress vary from one individual to another. It is worth identifying your own ‘early warning system’, so that if you start to get into the ‘negative stress zone’, you will be aware of it, and take steps to do something about it. It is particularly important to note changes in your patterns of behaviour.

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Physical Signs

palpitations - throbbing heart
skin irritation or rashes
pain and tightness in the chest
fainting
indigestion
frequent colds, flu or other infections
breathlessness
recurrence of previous illnesses
nausea
constipation or diarrhoea
headaches
rapid weight gain or loss
muscle twitches
tiredness
vague aches and pains
alteration of the menstrual pattern in women

Emotional Signs

swings in mood
feeling nervous, apprehensive, anxious
increased worrying
feelings of helplessness
irritability
loss of confidence
feeling tense
lack of self esteem
drained, no enthusiasm
lack of concentration
cynical
withdrawal into daydreams

Behavioural Signs

more accident prone
change in sleep pattern, difficulty in getting to sleep and waking tired
poor work
loss of interest in sex
increased smoking
withdrawal from supportive relationships
increased consumption of alcohol
too busy to relax
increased dependence on drugs
not looking after yourself
overeating or loss of appetite
poor time management
impaired speech