Stress can have wide ranging effects
on emotions, mood and behavior. There are numerous emotional and physical disorders that have been linked to stress
including
depression and anxiety.
A stress-related illness called post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) develops after
an event like war, physical or sexual assault, a near-death experience, or a natural disaster.
If you have chronic stress, the best way to deal with it is to take care of the underlying problem. Counseling can help you find ways to relax and calm down. Medicines may also help. The following is a list of some 50 common signs and symptoms of stress.
| 1. Frequent headaches, jaw clenching or pain | 26. Insomnia, nightmares, disturbing dreams |
| 2. Gritting, grinding teeth | 27. Difficulty concentrating, racing thoughts |
| 3. Stuttering or stammering | 28. Trouble learning new information |
| 4. Tremors, trembling of lips, hands | 29. Forgetfulness, disorganization, confusion |
| 5. Neck ache, back pain, muscle spasms | 30. Difficulty in making decisions. |
| 6. Light headedness, faintness, dizziness | 31. Feeling overloaded or overwhelmed. |
| 7. Ringing, buzzing or "popping sounds | 32. Frequent crying spells or suicidal thoughts |
| 8. Frequent blushing, sweating | 33. Feelings of loneliness or worthlessness |
| 9. Cold or sweaty hands, feet | 34. Little interest in appearance, punctuality |
| 10. Dry mouth, problems swallowing | 35. Nervous habits, fidgeting, feet tapping |
| 11. Frequent colds, infections, herpes sores | 36. Increased frustration, irritability, edginess |
| 12. Rashes, itching, hives, "goose bumps" | 37. Overreaction to petty annoyances |
| 13. Unexplained or frequent "allergy" attacks | 38. Increased number of minor accidents |
| 14. Heartburn, stomach pain, nausea | 39. Obsessive or compulsive behavior |
| 15. Excess belching, flatulence | 40. Reduced work efficiency or productivity |
| 16. Constipation, diarrhea | 41. Lies or excuses to cover up poor work |
| 17. Difficulty breathing, sighing | 42. Rapid or mumbled speech |
| 18. Sudden attacks of panic | 43. Excessive defensiveness or suspiciousness |
| 19. Chest pain, palpitations | 44. Problems in communication, sharing |
| 20. Frequent urination | 45. Social withdrawal and isolation |
| 21. Poor sexual desire or performance | 46. Constant tiredness, weakness, fatigue |
| 22. Excess anxiety, worry, guilt, nervousness | 47. Frequent use of over-the-counter drugs |
| 23. Increased anger, frustration, hostility | 48. Weight gain or loss without diet |
| 24. Depression, frequent or wild mood swings | 49. Increased smoking, alcohol or drug use |
| 25. Increased or decreased appetite | 50. Excessive gambling or impulse buying |