Stress symptoms

3-minute read

However, too much stress can affect mental and physical health, particularly if it becomes chronic (ongoing) or overwhelming. Stress can affect your body, your thoughts and feelings, and your behaviour.

If you are experiencing any symptoms of stress, it's best to see your doctor as it can contribute to health problems, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity and diabetes.

Body

The symptoms of stress and changes with your body that you may notice include:

headaches
other aches and pains
sleep disturbance
fatigue
upset stomach, diarrhoea
high blood pressure
weakened immune system
muscle tension
change in sex drive (male or female)

Mind

The symptoms of stress affecting your mind, thoughts and feelings include:

anxiety, worry
anger, irritability
depression or sadness
feeling overwhelmed and out of control
feeling restless
feeling moody, tearful
difficulty concentrating
low self-esteem, lack of confidence

Behaviour

The symptoms of stress that impact your behaviour include:

Chronic and severe stress can increase the risk of developing depression, anxiety, substance abuse or a range of other mental disorders. If you are concerned you may have a mental health issue, visit a health professional.

Not sure what to do next?

If you or someone you know are finding it difficult to manage mental health issues, try healthdirect’s Symptom Checker and get advice on when to seek professional help.

The Symptom Checker guides you to the next appropriate healthcare steps, whether it’s self care, talking to a health professional, going to a hospital or calling triple zero (000).