Common Physiological and Psychological Indicators of Stress

Physical Problems that may be caused by stress in your life:

  1. Muscle tension–neck, back, legs, etc.
  2. Shaking, trembling, spasms
  3. Headache–tension/migraine
  4. Enuresis and encopresis
  5. Digestion–nausea, acid, ulcers, gas, gurgling, cramps, pains
  6. Eating–compulsive, tasteless, loss of appetite
  7. Elimination–diarrhea, constipation
  8. Sleep problems–insomnia, early awakening, fitful, nightmares, excessive sleep
  9. Pain–backache, pain of shoulders and arms
  10. Teeth grinding/jaw aching
  11. Excessive sweating–palms, body
  12. Heart problems–palpitations, rapid, variable heartbeat, chest pain
  13. Breathing–difficulty catching breath, deep sighs, chest pain
  14. High blood pressure
  15. Skin eruptions–rash, hives, itching, excema patches
  16. Sexual difficulties–impotence, low libido (desire), non-orgasmic
  17. Absence of menstrual period

Psychological Problems that may be caused by stress in your life:

  1. Depression, pessimism, distress and melancholic feelings, lack of caring
  2. Irritability, hyperactivity, pacing, impatience, restlessness
  3. Anger, table-pounding
  4. Nervous mannerisms, tics, facial, finger tapping, drumming
  5. Speech difficulties–stuttering, stammering, halting
  6. Tiredness–boredom, low energy state, inefficiency, fatigue
  7. Lack of concentration, loss of memory, confusion, disorganization
  8. Passivity, lack of assertiveness
  9. Difficulty making decisions, immobility
  10. Being late, being too early (being on time)
  11. Self-consciousness, constant awareness of others’ responses or reactions
  12. Rigidity, inability to change or be flexible.
  13. Feeling overwhelmed, not in control.
  14. Unproductiveness, impaired performance, reduced problem solving ability