What are signs of unhealthy stress?

What are signs of unhealthy stress?

There is a long list of how stress affects us physically. Here are a few examples: Chest Pain.  Shortness of breath. Panic attacks. Muscle tension. Chronic pain. TMJ (temporomandibular joint or tight and painful jaw. Grinding teeth.  Sore shoulders or neck muscles. Headaches.  Inflamation of joints. Frequent colds. Laryngitis.  Skin blemishes and rashes. Upset stomach. Diarrhea. Autoimmune diseases.   Difficulty falling and/or remaining asleep. A lack of regular menstruation or ovulation. Extreme weight changes.

Emotional:  Lack of patience. Irritability. Crying frequently. Risky behaviours such as driving too fast. Impulsivity. Excessive behaviours such as substance use or alcohol use, spending money, hoarding, or gambling. Relationship(s) tension from angry outbursts or regrettable behaviours. Withdrawing from pleasurable activities or rewarding interactions. Eating more or less than needed to provide energy.

Mental: Difficulty concentrating or remaining focused on a task or goal. A lack of attention to details or goals. Difficulty focusing on what another is saying. Excessive worry or rumination. Intrusive thoughts about self. Negative thoughts about others or self. 

Stress can be relentless and hard on your body and mind. Taking to a therapist, can help choose strategies to support you in a positive and productive way. I would love to help.