Major Symptoms of Stress

Stress is actually tied in to primitive fight-or-flight instincts in our brains. When we feel threatened or in danger, our body releases hormones to power a given response (standing and fighting or running for our lives). Unfortunately, while few of us are in danger of being devoured by wild animals these days, the pressures of modern life often trigger the same fight-or-flight response in us. The symptoms are easy to spot.

Basic Physical Symptoms

• Physical symptoms of major stress can include chronic headaches, upset stomach, rapid heartbeat and muscle pains. Stress may also contribute to insomnia and other sleep problems.

Attendant Sickness

• Stress can have an effect on our immune systems, making us more vulnerable to colds and similar conditions. Though not directly related to stress, they have a way of making a bad situation worse.

Emotional Symptoms

• Stress often leads to feelings of anxiety, depression and hopelessness. That can, in turn, increase one's sense of anger and irritability, as well as contributing to sleeplessness.

Mental Sharpness

• Along with more overtly emotional symptoms, stress decreases mental sharpness. Concentration becomes difficult , and it becomes much easier to forget things.

Behavioral Symptoms

• Many people engage in harmful behavior as a way of coping with stress. This can include overeating, drug or alcohol abuse, and outbursts that affect their relationships at home and at work.