Stress is a natural occurrence. A small amount of stress is actually good for you; it helps to motivate you. For many people, however, stress tends to mount and becomes overwhelming. You may not be able to control the situations that cause stress, but you can learn to better manage your stress. Prolonged stress can affect you in a variety of ways.
Cognitive Symptoms
Stress can affect your ability to think clearly. You may find it difficult to concentrate or have trouble remembering important details. You may often be preoccupied with worries about your stressor(s). Anxiety often accompanies stress, causing racing thoughts and decreasing your ability to make sound decisions.
Emotional Symptoms
Stress can have a deep impact on your emotions or moods. You may feel agitated or irritable. Your anxiety may increase, causing you to feel overwhelmed and even helpless. You may not feel comfortable talking to others about your stress, which can cause you to feel isolated and lonely. Prolonged stress may cause chronic sadness or depression.
Physical Symptoms
A number of people visit their doctor indicating that they don’t feel well, but their doctor is unable to find a physical cause. Prolonged stress can have an impact on your health. Stress can wear down your immune system, causing you to suffer frequently from viruses such as a cold or the flu. You may have frequent, unexplained headaches or body aches. Some people experience nausea and even vomiting associated with their stress and anxiety. Severe cases of stress can cause shortness of breath, chest pain or tightness, which many people describe as feeling like they’re having a heart attack.
About this Author
Shemiah Williams is a young but experienced writer. She holds a bachelor’s degree in business and technology and a master’s degree in clinical psychology. She serves as a subject matter expert in many areas of health, relationships and professional development. She writes for Demand Studios as a direct extension from her personal mantra turned blog: Dream Realized.
