Recognize How Stress Impacts Your Body, Mind, Emotions, and Behaviors
Identifying the common signs of stress can help you better manage it.
If left unmanaged, stress can lead to serious health issues, including high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, and diabetes.
Stress can show up in many ways:
- Emotional symptoms like fear, anger, sadness, or frustration
- Changes in appetite, energy levels, or interests
- Difficulty concentrating or sleeping
- Physical symptoms such as headaches or digestive issues
Healthy ways to cope with stress:
Managing stress in healthy ways can make a big difference. Here are some strategies:
- Take breaks and unwind with deep breathing, stretching, or meditation.
- Keep a journal or spend time outdoors.
- Practice daily gratitude.
- Connect with trusted people or community groups.
Take care of your body:
- Get 7+ hours of sleep each night.
- Stay active—aim for 2½ hours of exercise a week.
- Eat a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, and lean protein.
- Limit alcohol and avoid drugs or smoking.