SIGNS/SYMPTOMS OF STRESS

The effects of stress are not only physical but have cognitive and physiological responses as well. The symptoms outlined below may indicate a problem with stress or may be caused by a number of other factors. In general, if you experience at least three or more of these symptoms for a prolonged period of time, then the cause IS stress related:

The symptoms are:

• Problems eating or sleeping
• Increased use of alcohol and other drugs
• Increased boredom and fatigue: a general sense of the "blahs"
• Problems making decisions; increased procrastination
• Becoming anxious and confused over unimportant events
• Inability to concentrate or pay attention
• Inability to get organized
• Weakness, dizziness and shortness of breath---> ANXIETY ATTACKS
• Persistent, hostile or angry feelings; increased frustration with minor annoyances
• Nightmares
• Overpowering urges to cry or run and hide
• Changes in your exercise habits
• Frequent headaches, backaches and muscle aches..... tightness in stomach
• Frequent indigestion, diarrhea, or urination
• Frequent colds and infections
• Frequent accidents and minor injuries

DANGER:

You may be suffering serious stress overload if:

• You feel a growing need for food, tobacco, alcohol, tranquillizers, sleeping pills or other drugs
• Your behaviour ( driving too fast, vandalizing property, practising unsafe sex) puts you and others at risk
• You are making plans to harm yourself
• Friends keep telling you that you seem stressed out

You may need the help of a therapist or counsellor to help find safer ways to unwind.