Stress

Stress

Most people sometimes feel stressed, and some find stress helpful or even motivating. But if stress is affecting your life, you can try things that may help.

Support is also available if you find it hard to cope with stress.

Symptoms of stress

Stress can cause many different symptoms. It might affect how you feel physically, mentally, and behave.

It’s not always easy to recognise when stress is why you’re feeling or acting differently.

Physical symptoms

  • headaches
  • dizziness
  • muscle tension or pain
  • stomach problems
  • chest pain or a faster heartbeat
  • sexual problems
  •  

Mental symptoms

  • difficulty concentrating
  • struggling to make decisions
  • feeling overwhelmed
  • constantly worrying
  • being forgetful
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Changes in behaviour

  • being irritable and snappy
  • too much or not enough sleep
  • eating too much or too little
  • avoiding certain places or people
  • drinking or smoking more