Stress is a natural part of life, and we all feel it to some extent almost every day of our lives. Stress can be a helpful feeling that propels us to take care of important tasks, go after the things we care about, and protect ourselves from potential harmful situations. But stress can sometimes be a debilitating force preventing you from achieving the things that you are capable of. If you are struggling with too much stress, know that you can get help. Here are a few signs of stress that you should look out for in your own life.
Frequent Headaches
While there are many potential causes to a headache that comes up every now and again, if you are experiencing regular headaches, it may be that you are too stressed. Stress can cause you to carry around extra tension in your muscles, jaw, face, and can fill your body with “fight or flight” hormones which can leave your head pounding and in need of some relief. If you find that your headaches often come with tension along your front, sides and back of your head, or additional soreness and tightness in your neck and shoulders, then it may be stress related.
Trouble Sleeping
Another surefire sign that you may be struggling with your stress is having trouble sleeping at night. Insomnia can have many causes, but stress is one of the most commonly cited causes for sleeping troubles. If you have been tossing and turning, struggling to fall asleep or stay asleep, then you may be stressed. If you find that you are grinding your teeth or snoring during sleep when you never have before this can be a sign as well. Grinding your teeth while you sleep can lead to long-term damage, so be sure to visit your dentist if your teeth are sore in the morning.
Decreased Appetite
The final sign that you might be dealing with stress is a decrease in your appetite. Stress releases all sorts of hormones in your body that are designed to keep you ready for action. These hormones have the consequences of slowing or stopping your digestion and hunger cues to help you focus on other tasks at hand. This can result in undereating and under drinking of water. If you find that you have been forgetting meals or drinking less water, you may be too stressed.
Nobody should have to deal with unchecked stress in their life, and the first step to finding relief is locating the problem. If you struggle with these three things, you may have too. Much stress and should try and remove some stress from your life.
Check out this article on how to get a handle on your depression and anxiety!