Symptoms of Stress

The following is a list of the major symptoms of stress that you might feel:

  • Physical Symptoms - mainly in response to increased levels of adrenaline:
    • Increase in heart rate
    • Increase in Sweating, and a cooler skin as this combines with a reduction in the blood flow to your skin.
    • 'Butterflies' in your stomach
    • Rapid Breathing
    • Tense Muscles
    • Dry Mouth
    • A desire to urinate
  • Mental Symptoms
    • Worry
    • Confusion, inability to concentrate or difficulty making decisions
    • Feeling ill or odd
    • Feeling out of control or overwhelmed
  • Behavioural Symptoms
    • Talking rapidly
    • Nervous mannerisms: nail biting, foot tapping, increased blinking, twitching, pacing
    • Scowling
    • Yawning
These symptoms of stress should not be taken in isolation - they could be caused by other factors. However if you find yourself exhibiting or recognising a number of them, then it would be worth investigating stress management techniques.