The Impact of Stress on Your Body & Mind: Physical & Emotional Effects

Physical effects

* Increased heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing

* Muscle tension

* Headaches

* Stomach problems

* Sleep problems

* A weakened immune system

* Skin problems

* Weight gain or loss

* Fatigue

* Dizziness

* Lightheadedness

* Tingling or numbness in the hands or feet

* Sexual problems

Emotional effects

* Anxiety

* Depression

* Irritability

* Mood swings

* Difficulty concentrating

* Forgetfulness

* Withdrawing from social activities

* Feeling overwhelmed

* Hopelessness

* Helplessness

* Feeling on edge

* Being easily angered

* Increased tearfulness

Behavioral effects

* Eating too much or too little

* Sleeping too much or too little

* Isolating yourself from others

* Using drugs or alcohol to cope

* Procrastinating

* Engaging in risky behaviors

* Neglecting responsibilities

* Lashing out at others

* Feeling irritable and snappy