When it comes to stress it is important to treat the disease, not the symptom. With that said, it is important to identify the symptoms so that you know exactly what the disease is, so we can get to the bottom of it and give you the tools to overcome it.
Don’t get nervous if you are experiencing any one of these, just be aware that they might be symptoms of a bigger issue. We all feel these at different points in our lives, but if you see some of these patterns it might be a good idea to re-evaluate what your plan to handle stress is, which I would love to help you with.
Loneliness: We may feel isolated from friends and family, or have a lasting sense of being “alone in a crowd”
Insecurity: You may suddenly feel shy or exposed around people with whom you are usually filled with confidence. Or we may believe that we are always being judged or criticized.
Loss of concentration or memory: You may find it hard to recall recent conversations or promises. We may often feel confused so understanding and retaining information could also be very difficult.
Not answering the telephone: You may lack interest in others and fight off their concerns.
Fatigue and sleeping difficulties: Even if you feel constantly tired, you may also find it impossible to get sleep, or sleep well.
Tears and mood swings: Crying easily is one of the most common symptoms. You may also be prone to mood swings–bouts of exhilaration alternating with dejection.
Impatience and irascibility: You may find yourself flying off the handle at any moment for trivial reasons; or may snap at people too quickly.
Restlessness: We might have difficulty sitting still over even short periods of time or fidgeting with our hands.
Obsessive working: Treating work as a refuge can be a stress symptom, although stress can also manifest itself as absenteeism.
Compulsions: You may find it difficult to avoid overeating or drinking, smoking, or buying clothes.
Loss of appetite: Food might not interest you anymore. Either we don’t eat, or we over-consume junk food, or whatever is in the fridge.
Fear of silence: Does silence cause you discomfort? Do you “over-talk” when with others, or leave the TV or radio on when alone?
Appearance obsessiveness: We might become excessively focused on our looks.
If you need help mitigating these feelings or coping with stress better in your life, hit me up at the links below.
