YOUR Response to Stress

Some of the signs of stress are in the table below. Take a look to see if you have any of these. Becoming aware of your signs of stress can help you to better manage your stress.

Physical  (How does your body feel?)

• • Low energy, feeling tired
  • Diarrhea or constipation
  • Indigestion, upset stomach, heartburn
  • Breathlessness
  • Nausea, dizziness
  • Loss of sex drive
  • Aches & pains
  • Muscle tension, grinding teeth
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Frequent colds

 

Behavioural  (What do you do?)

• • Difficulty in relationships Isolating yourself from others
  • Procrastinating and avoiding responsibilities
  • Not making the time for relaxing or pleasurable activities
  • Eating too much/too little
  • Sleeping too much/too little
  • Using alcohol, cigarettes or other drugs to escape or relax
  • Nervous habits (nail biting, pacing etc)

 

Emotions  (How do you feel?)

• • Moody
  • Irritable or short tempered
  • Agitated, unable to relax
  • Angry
  • Overwhelmed, unable to cope 
  • Frustrated
  • Afraid, worried
  • Feeling bad about yourself (low self- esteem)

 

Cognition  (What are you thinking?)

• • Difficulty focusing
  • Forgetfulness
  • Difficulty making decisions
  • Confused
  • Mind going blank
  • Seeing only the negative
  • Racing or anxious thoughts
  • Constantly worrying
  • Poor judgement
  • Having a negative attitude about yourself and your life

 

Experiencing some of these symptoms doesn’t necessarily mean that you are over- stressed. The more signs and symptoms you notice in yourself, the more likely you are experiencing stress overload.

• It is important to note that some symptoms may be related to being pregnant (increased fatigue, nausea) or just having given birth and caring for a baby (poor sleep, fatigue). Common physical symptoms of pregnancy and the postpartum period can be worsened by stress, so it is important to learn some strategies to better manage stress.
• The signs and symptoms of stress can also be a result of other psychological or medical problems.

If you’re under a lot of stress and feel like you are having a hard time coping, speak to your doctor. Your healthcare provider can refer you to a therapist if necessary. Mental health professionals can better assess how strong or intense your stress has become and provide you with strategies tailored to your needs.