Stress can happen to all of us. Even mentally strong people experience it, and how it happens differs from person to person. However, remember that all stress you experience is valid, and taking time to cope instead of letting it eat you up inside is beneficial.
The signs of stress can affect your life, whether emotionally, physically, cognitively, or behaviorally. Although these symptoms are vague and can be caused by other health conditions, it’s best to keep track of yourself. Here is a list of symptoms to help identify whether you are stressed and some of the best practices to release yourself from it.
Emotional symptoms
- Getting agitated, frustrated, and moody quickly; avoiding social interaction
- Overwhelming feelings, the desire of wanting to take control of things out of your control
- Difficulty finding relaxation and quieting your mind
- The feeling of low self-worth, loneliness, depression
Physical symptoms
- Headaches, bodily and chest pains, tense muscles, and low energy
- An upset stomach, nausea, constipation, and diarrhoea
- Insomnia
- Cold or sweaty hands and feet, shaking and nervousness, ringing in the ear,
- Difficulty swallowing, grinding teeth, dry mouth, clenched jaw
Cognitive symptoms
- Constant worrying, racing thoughts
- Forgetfulness, disorganization, and inability to focus
- Poor judgment
- Being pessimistic or seeing only the negative side
Behavioural symptoms
- Changes in appetite — can be a noticeable increase or decrease in eating habits
- Procrastination and shirking responsibilities
- Increased use of alcohol, cigarettes, and drugs
- Exhibiting involuntary nervous behaviors, such as biting nails, being fidgety, and constantly pacing
What can I do to relieve and avoid stress?
Since you stress is inevitable, you can stop it from overwhelming you by practising simple strategies.
- Exercise when you feel symptoms of stress coming on. Even a short walk outside can be a mood booster. Don’t be afraid to try relaxation activities, such as meditation, yoga, tai chi, and breathing exercises. Search up on easy regimens online, or at local gyms.
- When ending each day, take a brief moment to look back at your small achievements. Pat yourself on the back for achieving them. Think about the tasks you haven’t succeeded in. Assure yourself that you will get it done as time permits, and don’t harp on it.
- Choose to talk to a licensed health care provider or a therapist. Aside from in-person appointments, you can consult a doctor online in Singapore.
- Take excellent care of your body. Although it feels good to eat whatever you want from time to time, make sure to fall back on healthy habits. Eat the right kinds of food and supplements. Be well-stocked on healthy eats if you need to munch.
Conclusion
Stress is all a part of life. What matters most is how you handle it. With the simple steps above, you will find yourself at a better headspace than before.
Mental health services are available via telemedicine in Singapore. Simply connect with the right provider through the MyCLNQ app and book an appointment, even from the comfort of your home.
Should you need anything else, MyCLNQ app also offers other services, such as private ambulance service and virtual ART tests in Singapore.