Symptoms of Psychological Stress
We can divide these symptoms as follows:
The most common physical symptoms caused by psychological stress include:
- Low energy levels.
- Headaches.
- Digestive disorders, including diarrhea, constipation, or nausea.
- Various body aches and muscle tension, especially in the shoulders and back.
- Chest pain with rapid heartbeat.
- High blood pressure.
- Frequent colds and other infectious diseases.
- Insomnia.
- Dry mouth and difficulty swallowing.
- Teeth grinding and jaw muscle tension.
- Sweaty hands and feet.
- Shaking.
- Ringing in the ears.
- Skin rashes.
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Psychological and Cognitive Symptoms
These are among the most common psychological and cognitive effects of stress:
- Anxiety and nervousness.
- Anger and irritability.
- Frequent forgetfulness and difficulty concentrating.
- Depression, crying, and low mood.
- Social withdrawal.
- Feeling exhausted or tired without an obvious reason.
- Poor judgment.
- Racing thoughts.
- Pessimism and inability to see the positive side of things.
- Persistent anxiety.
The following are some of the behavioral effects of psychological stress:
- Changes in eating habits, such as overeating or loss of appetite.
- Procrastination and avoidance of responsibilities.
- Nail biting and other nervous behaviors caused by excessive tension.
Complications of Psychological Stress
If stress continues for a long time or is particularly intense, it can lead to long-term complications, including:
- Mental health disorders: such as depression, anxiety, and personality disorders.
- Cardiovascular diseases: including high blood pressure, stroke, and heart disease.
- Skin and hair problems: such as acne, psoriasis, and hair loss.
- Digestive disorders: including ulcerative colitis, acid reflux, and irritable bowel syndrome.
- Other complications: such as obesity and menstrual disorders.
Tips for Managing Psychological Stress
After reviewing the key symptoms of psychological stress, here are the most important tips to help you manage stress:
- Accept that certain life events and conditions are beyond your control.
- Organize your time and tasks effectively.
- Make time for hobbies and favorite activities.
- Stay connected with friends and build a social support circle.
- Practice meditation—especially before sleep—to help you relax. Don’t forget to download the Tawazon app to benefit from its comprehensive meditation resources and enjoy a variety of guided meditations and podcasts.
- Don’t hesitate to consult a doctor or therapist if you feel overwhelmed. They can help you find effective ways to reduce the impact of stress and its associated symptoms.
