True Living Counseling

Think, Feel, Be

What is stress? 

The Body’s Stress Response

When you perceive a threat, your nervous system responds by releasing a flood of stress hormones, including adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones rouse the body for emergency action.

Your heart pounds faster, muscles tighten, blood pressure rises, breath quickens, and your senses become sharper. These physical changes increase your strength and stamina, speed your reaction time, and enhance your focus – preparing you to either fight or flee from the danger at hand. 

Stress is a normal physical response to events that make you feel threatened or upset your balance in some way. When you sense danger – whether it’s real or imagined – the body's defenses kick into high gear in a rapid, automatic process known as the “fight-or-flight” reaction, or the stress response.

Stress Warning Signs and Symptoms

  Cognitive Symptoms

      •  Memory problems 

      •  Inability to concentrate 

      •  Poor judgment 

      •  Seeing only the negative 

      •  Anxious or racing thoughts 

      •  Constant worrying 

Emotional Symptoms  

      •  Moodiness 

      •  Irritability or short temper 

      •  Agitation, inability to relax 

      •  Feeling overwhelmed 

      •  Sense of loneliness and isolation 

      •  Depression or general unhappiness 

Physical Symptoms 

      •  Aches and pains 

      •  Diarrhea or constipation 

      •  Nausea, dizziness 

      •  Chest pain, rapid heartbeat 

      •  Loss of sex drive 

      •  Frequent colds 

Behavioral Symptoms

      •  Eating more or less 

      •  Sleeping too much or too little 

      •  Isolating yourself from others 

      •  Procrastinating or neglecting responsibilities 

      •  Using alcohol, cigarettes, or drugs to relax 

      •  Nervous habits (e.g. nail biting, pacing) 

Keep in mind that the signs and symptoms of stress can also be caused by other psychological and medical problems. If you’re experiencing any of the warning signs of stress, it’s important to see a doctor for a full evaluation.

STRESS

Your doctor can help you determine whether or not your symptoms are stress-related.

...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Interested in learning more?

1721 West Plano Prwy Suite 103, TX 75075                                                                                                                                                                Phone: 469-877-4941