Stress symptoms

When we’re stressed, we tend to focus more on what stresses us, and less on what gives us energy. It’s common for us to start by removing what we most need when we’re stressed. After a long period of time with too few recovery activities, we can get stress symptoms. This is a signal that we need to slow down, and it can be good to learn to recognise these signs. The body handles stress in different ways and the symptoms may therefore differ.

Examples of stress symptoms:   

  • Tiredness and lack of energy, finding it hard to feel rested  
  • Disturbed sleep   
  • Hard to take it easy and relax  
  • Pain and tension in the body 
  • Headache  
  • Depression, worry, anxiety 
  • Indifference 
  • Lower self-esteem 
  • Mood instability, irritation   
  • Rapid heart beat, chest pressure, difficulty breathing  
  • Poorer memory  
  • Difficulty concentrating and getting things done  

How do you notice that you’re stressed - what are usually the first signs? 

Exercises

Guided exercises for mindfulness, breathing and focus. 

An accepting approach

It’s hard to accept things that we would rather didn’t exist. But you can practice an accepting approach to life. 

Life Compass

How can we clarify values that can give us direction in life?

Mindfulness

Mindfulness is about consciously choosing to direct attention to what is going on in the present moment.

Problem solving

For things that take your energy and that you can have an influence over, problem solving is a good strategy.