Signs & Symptoms

Stress can be easily identified and experienced through cognitive, emotional, physical and behavioral signs and symptoms. Let us discuss a few of these symptoms of stress in further detail:

Cognitive signs and symptoms of stress


Imagine sitting at an examination hall but not being able to recall the answer to a question you had studied the night before. Or forgetting where you kept your project file right before an important business meet with your clients. Such scenarios that prevent our cognitive senses to respond in a timely and effective manner can trigger cognitive stress. The most common cognitive signs and symptoms of stress include:

  • Memory prolems and inability to recall information
  • Inabilty to concentrate
  • Poor judgement
  • Negative thoughts
  • Constant worrying

Emotional signs and symptoms of stress

A financial crisis or a rocky relationship can not only clog your mind with negative thoughts but can also manifest themselves in your behavior. Some of the most common emotional signs and symptoms of stress include:

  • Moodiness
  • Irritability
  • Short temper, agitation
  • Panic and inability to relax
  • Loneliness and isolation
  • Depression

Physical signs and symptoms of stress

Hectic lifestyle, busy schedule, overworking, constant travel, frequent relocation, and lack of rest and proper sleep can cause a lot of exertion on the body thereby resulting in physical stress. The signs and symptoms of physical stress include:

  • Aches and pain
  • Chest pain, rapid heartbeat
  • Nausea and dizziness
  • Diarrhea or constipation
  • Loss of sex drive

Behavioral signs and symptoms of stress

Stress can be apparent through behavior as well. Stressors prompt neurons to react in a certain way that is not a part of an individual's normal lifestyle. Some of the behavioral signs and symptoms of stress include:

  • Over or under eating
  • Over or under sleeping
  • Isolation from family and social circles
  • Procrastination or negligence of responsibilities
  • Substance abuse

Thus, stress can manifest itself at the cognitive, emotional, physical and behavioral levels. Changing lifestyle, following a healthy diet, rest and participate in exercise regimes can effectively help manage these signs and symptoms of stress. However, in case these symptoms become too problematic, it is strongly recommended to seek the advice of your health care provider.