Physical, Emotional, behavioral and interpersonal responses may include:
1
Headaches
Dizziness
Low Energy
Loss of Sleep
Sleeping too much
2
Feeling overwhelmed
Lack of control
Difficulty relaxing
Unable to focus
Easily frustrated, Moody or upset
Scattered, racing thoughts
Constant worrying or uneasiness
3
Heart rate increases
Blood pressure increases
4
Breathing rate rises
5
Blood sugar level rises
6
Loss of appetite
Upset Stomach
Weight Loss
Weight Gain
7
Aches & Pains
![Chart depicting good and bad levels of stress](/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/expanded_stress_continuum.png)
Not all stress is bad, there are times when stress can be good, such as surviving a dangerous situation or preparing for a test, interview or athletic event. However, if stress is left unmanaged it can cause serious health issues, for instance depression, anxiety, high blood pressure, heart disease and diabetes.
Quick Facts
of people feel
extreme stress
feels stress has some impacts
on physical health
of people’s experience
mental health impacts
of people feel
report sleep issues
of people who experience
high amounts of stress
increased risk of dying
Americans die
prematurely from
thinking “stress is bad”
Stress Tools
Stress management is important as it helps you maintain focus, energy and alertness to rise up above pressures and challenges. Preventing and managing your stress can lower risks for health conditions, improve sleep, mood, interactions with family and friends, weight control and muscle tension. The goal is to establish a balance with relationships, work, fun, relaxation and resilience. When you are undergoing a lot of stress, it is vital to notice its affects and learn best practices to manage your stress.
![Yellow stress ball an x for one eye. The mouth is sqwiggly with hard angles.](/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/stressball.jpg)
![Graphic of aclipboard with a stress assement questionaire on it](/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/StressAssessment.png)
Stress Assessment Tool
Perceived Stress Scale: Questions regarding your feelings and thoughts to help identify your perceived stress levels.
https://www.das.nh.gov/wellness/docs/percieved%20stress%20scale.pdfWHERE TO GET HELP
Always reach to get help if you are suffering from high amounts of stress, severe symptoms or unmanaged stress or feelings.
Your Health care provider can refer you to a mental health professional (i.e. psychologist or social worker)