Symptoms of chronic stress - do you know them?

Symptoms of chronic stress

When stress is prolonged over time, there is a physical, emotional or mental exhaustion that affects our self-esteem and health. A person experiencing chronic stress is often not even aware of what is happening to them because they have become accustomed to the situation even though they have not overcome it. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to both disturbing physical and psychological symptoms in a timely manner.

Let's recall the most characteristic ones:

• Anxiety and irritability These are common symptoms of chronic stress. We constantly feel insecure and everything annoys us. For this type of symptoms, it is worth using relaxation techniques on a daily basis, which we will learn, for example, through Mindfulness meditation.

• Headaches Stress can be directly related to migraines. It can also manifest as bruxism, i.e. involuntary clenching and grinding of teeth during sleep, which further aggravates headaches.

• Frequent infections — living in constant stress reduces the body's immune functions, which can cause more frequent colds or gastrointestinal problems. Immunity is supported by a healthy diet and regular sleep — it's worth remembering!

• Sleep problems One of the most common symptoms of chronic stress is sleep disturbance. Although being overwhelmed with problems often makes it difficult to fall asleep and fall asleep - it is still worth trying to maintain a circadian rhythm (go to bed and get up at about the same time).

• Eating disorders Stress can cause us to overeat or make us feel no appetite at all. Therefore, living in tension, despite everything, try to eat regularly and avoid snacks that excessively affect the digestive functions and aggravate the state of anxiety.

• Constant feeling of lack of time — this is a very characteristic sensation in people struggling with stress. In mastering the feeling that the amount of daily tasks overwhelms us, it can be helpful to set realistic goals for yourself that can be achieved without high energy expenditure.

Ways to combat chronic stress

The best way to overcome stress is to eliminate the causative factor - but, as you know, this is not always possible. So if you feel that the problem concerns you, try to find active ways to deal with its bothersome symptoms. In some cases, it will be helpful to change your lifestyle — taking care of a healthy diet, regular exercise, spending free time with family and friends, finding a moment to relax, getting regular rest or avoiding stimulants.

However, if chronic stress is accompanied by emotional exhaustion and symptoms of depression, be sure to start by consulting a psychologist who will help you determine the next steps. Sometimes it is professional therapy that can be the only key to dealing with the negative effects of living in constant tension.

So keep your hand on the pulse and take care of yourself every day!