Common Signs of Stress
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Usually there are noticeable changes in a person that is stressed, it might be their behaviours, their thoughts or their physical health.  So the key is to look
out for negative changes of any kind.  Bear in mind, that the negative changes are
​also likely to have knock on effects, for example, reduce performance at work.

Of course, we all experience 'bad days', so we are really talking about situations where people display these negatives changes for a period of time (for example,
5 days or more in a row).

​Stress symptoms can be identified into 4 different categories, Cognitive, Emotional, Physical and Behavioural.  Some people experience a lot and some only experience a few symptoms at any one time.​

Common signs to look out for:
Cognitive Symptoms:
  • Memory problems
  • Poor judgement
  • Inability to concentrate
  • 'Brain Fog'
  • Indecision
  • Starting many tasks but achieving little
  • Self doubt​

​
​Emotional Symptoms:
  • Depression
  • Moodiness
  • Irritability
  • Panic 
  • Negativity
  • Anxiety
  • Feeling overwhelmed
  • Frustration​​
Physical Symptoms:
  • Headaches
  • Sleep disturbances; sleeping too little or too much
  • Fatigue
  • Weakened immune system
  • Muscle tension; aches and pains
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • High blood pressure

Behavioural Symptoms:
  • Overeating or undereating
  • Angry outbursts
  • Relationship problems
  • Isolating yourself from others
  • Increased use of alcohol, cigarettes, caffeine or drug to relax
  • Avoiding people and/or situations
  • Loss of sense of humour
More About Stress:
If you have one or more stress symptoms contact Samantha at AQUA Psychology today on 1300 811 499