How to Identify Stress

Body

Stress can build gradually — often before we realise it is happening. Below are some of the many signs that may indicate pressure is mounting. If you notice several over a period of time, it may help to talk things through with a trusted adviser or your GP.

You can find all this information in our free downloads section How to Identify Stress here.

Common Stress Indicators

A range of psychological, emotional, physical and behavioural signs may suggest that stress is building.

PSYCHOLOGICAL SIGNS

Inability to concentrate or make simple decisions
Memory lapses
Becoming rather vague
Easily distracted
Less intuitive & creative
Undue worrying / racing thoughts
Feeling overwhelmed, unmotivated, or unfocused
Depression & anxiety
Negative thinking
Insomnia or waking still tired
Prone to accidents

EMOTIONAL SIGNS

Tearful
Irritable
Mood swings
Extra sensitive to criticism
Defensive
Feeling out of control
Lack of motivation
Angry
Frustrated
Lack of confidence
Lack of self-esteem

PHYSICAL SIGNS

Aches/pains & muscle tension/grinding teeth
Frequent colds/infections
Allergies/rashes/skin irritations
Constipation/diarrhoea/IBS
Weight loss or gain
Indigestion/heartburn/ulcers
Hyperventilating/lump in the throat/pins & needles
Dizziness/palpitations
Nervousness or shaking uncontrollably
Panic attacks/nausea
Cold or sweaty hands and feet
Physical tiredness
Menstrual changes/loss of libido/sexual problems
Heart problems/high blood pressure

BEHAVIOURAL SIGNS

No time for relaxation or pleasurable activities
Prone to accidents, forgetfulness
Increased reliance on alcohol, smoking, caffeine, recreational or illegal drugs
Becoming a workaholic
Poor time management and/or poor standards of work
Absenteeism
Self neglect/change in appearance
Social withdrawal
Relationship problems
Insomnia or waking tired
Aggressive/anger outbursts
Nervous
Uncharacteristically lying

If You Recognise Several Signs…

You don’t need to experience all of these to feel the impact of stress — even a few, if persistent, can affect wellbeing. Don’t ignore the warning signs. If the signs increase in frequency or persist over time, it may be helpful to seek additional support. This could include:

• speaking with your GP or another healthcare professional,

• reaching out to a qualified stress management consultant (see the ISMA^UK Directory),

• talking with someone in your organisation who is trained in wellbeing or people support.

You do not have to manage these concerns alone.

Wellbeing & Resilience at Work Training Programme

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