Although just enough stress can be a good thing, too much stress can overwhelm a person’s ability to cope, especially if the stressors are compounded or continue over a long period of time.
Below are listed some warning signs and symptoms to watch for that will signal that you may need to make some changes in your life to ease the pressure and give yourself a needed break.
Cognitive Symptoms
- Memory problems
- Indecisiveness
- Inability to concentrate
- Trouble thinking clearly
- Poor judgment
- Seeing only the negative
- Anxious or racing thoughts
- Constant worrying
- Loss of objectivity
- Fearful anticipation
Emotional Symptoms
- Moodiness
- Agitation
- Restlessness
- Short temper
- Irritability, impatience
- Inability to relax
- Feeling tense and “on edge”
- Feeling overwhelmed
- Sense of loneliness and isolation Depression or general unhappiness
Physical Symptoms
- Headaches or backaches
- Muscle tension and stiffness
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Nausea, dizziness
- Insomnia
- Chest pain, rapid heartbeat
- Weight gain or loss
- Skin breakouts (hives, eczema)
- Loss of sex drive
- Frequent colds
Behavioral Symptoms
- Eating more or less
- Sleeping too much or too little
- Isolating from others
- Procrastinating, neglecting responsibilities
- Using drugs or alcohol to relax
- Nervous habits
- Teeth grinding or jaw clenching
- Overdoing activities (shopping, gambling, etc.)
- Overreacting to problems
- Picking fights with others
Okay, so now we know more about stress and what to watch for. How do we know when are symptoms are severe enough that we need to seek professional help for our children or ourselves?
You need to seek professional help when:
1. You are unable to function
2. Your symptoms are negatively affecting your relationships
3. You are experiencing extreme feelings of hopelessness or helplessness
4. You are experiencing ongoing depressive symptoms
5. You are having panic attacks
6. You have suicidal thoughts or are desperate to make the pain stop
7. You are worried about yourself or others are worried about you
8. Your symptoms last longer than a few days or a week
If you are in doubt, ask a close friend or a family member. Sometimes they recognize the symptoms and warning signs first.
If you suspect that You or Someone You Care About Needs Help, you may find my contact information on my website at http://www.rhondamoore.vpweb.com/.
