10 Signs You’re Way Too Stressed

10 Signs You’re Way Too Stressed

Stress can be beneficial in the right amounts; it can motivate you and keep you safe when danger is looming. Most people thrive on a little bit of stress, but sometimes, stress can become overwhelming and do more damage than good. It is important that you notice the symptoms of too much stress, and what you can do to prevent them.

Here are some signs that might indicate you are way too stressed:

1. Skin conditions such as eczema and acne; yep, stress might be a cause of those unexplained breakouts you keep experiencing.
2. Eating more or less; you might find yourself eating for comfort or forgetting to eat entirely.
3. Cold and flu; your immune system may work a little less efficiently during periods of stress.
4. Sleep issues; stress can tire you out resulting in too much (or too little) sleep.
5. Emotional issues; you might be feeling a little down, crying at everything, or feeling generally withdrawn from people and responsibilities.
6. Your ability to stay focused and concentrate can also be affected during periods of stress; you may also find that things you once enjoyed doing, no longer interest you.
7. You might be drinking or smoking more than usual.
8. Memory problems; sometimes when we are stressed, our minds feel a little foggy resulting in us forgetting to do or remember simple things.
9. Nausea and sickness can be a physical symptom of extreme stress.
10. Headaches; that constant pounding feeling in your head that makes you wonder if a woodpecker got inside can be sign that you are too stressed.

These are just some of the symptoms of too much stress, but everyone’s body can respond to it in different ways. Now that we are aware of some of the signs, here are some ways you can help yourself to relax!

1. Not many of us will like this one, but exercise is a great way to combat stress; even just small amounts of exercise can help to release endorphins that boost your mood.
2. Talking – communicating with loved ones can help to reduce stress and anxiety; “A problem shared is a problem halved!”
3. Process of elimination; don’t take on unnecessary tasks that might cause you more stress. Learn to say no and focus on the things that actually matter.
4. Get enough sleep, but not too much!
5. Make diet changes; reduce your intake of caffeine, sugar, and alcohol. If you eat and drink good, you feel good!

Written by Chloe Gascoigne