The Signs and Symptoms of Stress: Managing Stress in Your Life

Are you under a lot of stress lately? Perhaps you do not recognize that this is what is happening to you.

Maybe the stress that you are under is more serious than you realize. 

Everyone experiences stress at one time or another and may manifest unexpected, unusual signs and symptoms regardless of whether one is an adult, young and old, a teenager, a child or a baby. People do not necessarily always show the same signs and symptoms of stress, although there are many symptoms that many do have in common.

The article, “Stress symptoms: Effects on your body, feelings and behavior” suggests that we may not always recognize the culprit or what is causing our stress.

What is stressful for one person may not necessarily be stressful to another. Many times, the signs and symptoms of stress go unrecognized. People tend to ignore the symptoms of stress, even when they should pay attention to the warning signs with respect to their health status.

“Stress that's left unchecked can contribute to health problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity and diabetes.”

Stress can affect the entire human body, as well as one’s mood and behavior, adversely. 

These symptoms can include a headache, upset stomach, fatigue, inability to sleep, anxiety, depression and mood swings. Depression is common and sudden outbursts of anger may occur when one is experiencing stress. These are just a few of the more common symptoms of stress. 

There are times when the symptoms one is experiencing are more serious than one realizes. For example, a person may have symptoms of chest pain that he or she relates to stress, when they can be indicative of a more serious health-related problem, like a pending heart attack. These symptoms include “shortness of breath, sweating, dizziness, nausea, or pain radiating into your shoulder and arm.” Obtaining immediate, emergency medical attention is vital.

Stress management is important for everyone and can include different modes of relaxation, physical exercise, a change in one’s activities or meditation practices of various kinds. Understanding the importance of dealing with stress appropriately is important for your health and that of your family and others. 

Finding the culprit that causes your stress is one of the first steps to reducing your stress level and that of others in your family. It may be something that can be easily resolved through improved communication and a change in life style. At times, a professional counseling may be indicated, particularly when there are serious concerns that must be dealt with like alcohol, drug or substance abuse.

Is it possible to live a stress free life? Probably not, but if you manage your stress effectively, you can stay healthy.