When experiencing stress, you may be affected totally, not only in your body but also in your emotional reactions, your personal thoughts and your relations with others. The following list of stress symptoms contains the most typical reaction to stress. It can also help you begin focusing on ways to manage stress.
Check any symptoms you have noticed lately in yourself.
PHYSICAL
______ headaches _____ accident prone ______ fatigue _____ teeth grinding ______ insomnia _____ restlessness ______ weight change _____ colds ______ digestive upsets _____ pounding heart ______ increased alcohol, drug, tobacco use ______ neck and shoulders tighten up/ache
MENTAL
______ forgetfulness _____ confusion ______ dull senses _____ lethargy ______ poor concentration _____ no new ideas ______ low productivity _____ boredom ______ negative attitude
EMOTIONAL
______ anxiety _____ irritability ______ the “blues” _____ depression ______ mood swings _____ nervous laugh ______ bad temper _____ worrying ______ crying spells _____ easily discouraged
SOCIAL
______ isolation _____ lowered sex drive ______ lashing out _____ loneliness ______ clamming up _____ using people ______ fewer contacts with friends
Look over the symptoms you’ve checked and circle those that occur frequently or regularly. Study your list. Which symptoms cause you the most concern? This checklist can serve as a starting point to discuss with your doctor or mental health professional to develop a stress management program.
If you need help with a referral, call the local AA EAP at (918) 292-2464 or 1 (800) 555-8810, #9.
Stress Checklist - PDF
