Side Effects of Stress

Stress doesn’t always come out as an emotion. We often stuff the emotions and then it finds a way to surface elsewhere. Dealing with our stress in a healthy manner is vital to our health. Talking about it, drawing pictures, journaling, eating healthy and exercising can help reduce stress.  If you aren’t sure whether or not you are processing your stressors look at the signs and symptoms below.

50 common signs and symptoms of stress according to the American Institute of Stress.

1.  Frequent headaches, jaw clenching or      pain		26. Insomnia, nightmares, disturbing       dreams
2.  Gritting, grinding teeth		27. Difficulty concentrating, racing thoughts
3.  Stuttering or stammering		28. Trouble learning new information
4.  Tremors, trembling of lips, hands		29. Forgetfulness, disorganization,       confusion
5.  Neck ache, back pain, muscle spasms		30. Difficulty in making decisions.
6.  Light headedness, faintness, dizziness		31. Feeling overloaded or overwhelmed.
7.  Ringing, buzzing or "popping sounds		32. Frequent crying spells or suicidal       thoughts
8.  Frequent blushing, sweating		33. Feelings of loneliness or worthlessness
9.  Cold or sweaty hands, feet		34. Little interest in appearance,       punctuality
10. Dry mouth, problems swallowing		35. Nervous habits, fidgeting, feet tapping
11. Frequent colds, infections, herpes sores		36. Increased frustration, irritability,       edginess
12. Rashes, itching, hives, "goose bumps"		37. Overreaction to petty annoyances
13. Unexplained or frequent "allergy"       attacks		38. Increased number of minor accidents
14. Heartburn, stomach pain, nausea		39. Obsessive or compulsive behavior
15. Excess belching, flatulence		40. Reduced work efficiency or productivity
16. Constipation, diarrhea		41. Lies or excuses to cover up poor work
17. Difficulty breathing, sighing		42. Rapid or mumbled speech
18. Sudden attacks of panic		43. Excessive defensiveness or       suspiciousness
19. Chest pain, palpitations		44. Problems in communication, sharing
20. Frequent urination		45. Social withdrawal and isolation
21. Poor sexual desire or performance		46. Constant tiredness, weakness, fatigue
22. Excess anxiety, worry, guilt,       nervousness		47. Frequent use of over-the-counter drugs
23. Increased anger, frustration, hostility		48. Weight gain or loss without diet
24. Depression, frequent or wild mood       swings		49. Increased smoking, alcohol or drug use
25. Increased or decreased appetite		50. Excessive gambling or impulse buying