You may think you have everything under control and that life is moving along fine. In reality, this may or may not be true. In today’s world, there are many people who look and act as if things are fine, but they’re really not. After further inquiry, you realize many of those folks are feeling F.I.N.E. – Frustrated, Insecure, Neurotic and Emotional. As the saying goes, “Never let them see you sweat.” Are you one of those people who appear to have it all together but you are secretly stressed? Consider these signs that indicate you may be stressed.
Trouble Sleeping
How long does it take you to get to sleep? If you are tossing and turning before you actually get to sleep, you may be stressed. Are you taking medication to help you get to sleep? Chances are your brain is telling you something you don’t want to hear, but perhaps you should listen. Quality sleep provides the healing time your body needs to rejuvenate for the next day. If you aren’t getting enough quality sleep time, your body is slowly being adversely affected.
Headaches
Thinking too much? Headaches are another symptom of stress. They could come from over-thinking problems, or they could come from muscle tension – which also comes from being stressed. If you are often turning to acetaminophen or ibuprofen to quell a headache, it’s probably time you look deeper into the cause of your pain.
Clenching or Grinding Teeth
Many people don’t even realize they have this habit. It often happens at night, and it can wake a sleeping partner due to the noise – remember fingernails on the chalkboard? Bruxism and clenching can cause headaches, along with jaw pain. For some, this is an intermittent problem that subsides when the stress is dealt with. For others, it’s an ongoing issue that requires the help of a dentist to resolve.
A Pain in the Neck
When someone you interact with is a pain in the neck, they can actually create pain in your neck! Pain is often a symptom of being stressed. You unconsciously tighten your muscles, and the next thing you know, you are experiencing pain. Stretches can help alleviate the pain. Dealing with whatever is causing the stress in the first place may eliminate it.
Fatigue
You may feel sick and tired of dealing with the same old problems. These same old problems may actually be causing you to feel sick and tired. Stress has very real physical effects on the body, which can compromise your immune system and energy level.
Shortness of Breath
Under some circumstances, you may experience shortness of breath. This symptom can manifest in a full-blown panic attack for someone who feels extremely stressed out.
Lack of Patience
Not everyone has a lot of patience; however, if you feel the patience you do have coming to an end faster than usual, chances are you are stressed. Looming deadlines, financial concerns or life, in general, can make a person lose patience.
High Blood Pressure
This is a serious problem for those who are stressed. High blood pressure is a silent killer. It can lead to heart attack or stroke. If you are suffering from this illness, it’s imperative you address the problem and follow your doctor’s orders. Don’t let stress put you in an early grave.
Gastrointestinal Issues
There are a variety of illnesses in this category. You may experience abdominal pain, heartburn, acid reflux, ulcers, etc. While over-the-counter drugs will help with the symptoms, you will need a doctor’s care and a way to handle your stress, to really bring them under control.
Changes in Appetite
If you find yourself eating more than usual or if you’ve lost your appetite, it may be a result of feeling stressed. This common symptom can lead to weight gain or rapid weight loss.
It is important to find the source of your stress and handle it. You may need professional help to do this. Symptoms of stress affect every level of society, so you are not alone. The way to a healthier, happier life is to handle the stressors that are having a negative impact on your health and quality of life.
At Frohlich, Gordon & Beason, P.A., we help those who have been injured through no fault of their own get compensated for their losses. As specialists in personal injury law, we provide clients with excellent service, care, and compassion. Residents of the southwest area of Florida will find our offices located in Port Charlotte, North Port, and Englewood. Contact us today for a free initial consultation.