When Is It More Than Just Stress?

Understand what typical stress looks like, which may include feelings of anxiety, irritability, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. Recognizing these symptoms is the first step toward addressing them.

Take note of specific situations, events, or types of work that prompt feelings of stress. Keeping a journal can help you track when these feelings arise and how they affect you.

Consider how long your stress has been present and how intense it feels. Chronic stress lasting more than a few weeks may indicate the need for further evaluation.

Research the physical symptoms that can occur with stress, such as headaches, stomach issues, or sleeping problems. This can help differentiate stress from more serious health concerns.

Assess your current coping strategies for managing stress. Healthy strategies include exercise, mindfulness, and talking things out with others, while unhealthy methods may include substance abuse.

If stress becomes overwhelming or impacts daily life, reach out to friends, family, or professionals. Communicating about your feelings can help alleviate stress.

Be aware of signs indicating a shift from stress to potentially more serious issues such as depression or anxiety disorders, which include persistent sadness, lack of motivation, and panic attacks.

Monitor any changes in behavior including withdrawal from social activities, changes in work performance, or major life changes that might indicate stress is becoming more than just a temporary issue.

Educate yourself on the impact mental health has on overall well-being, highlighting the significance of seeking professional help when needed.

Develop a personalized plan to manage stress, incorporating both immediate coping strategies and long-term mental health care solutions to mitigate the effects of stress.