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4 Reasons You’re Stressed – And How To Deal With It

Stress. It comes to us all and, although a little of it can be a good thing, a lot of it certainly is not. It can lead to an increased risk of weight gain, addictions, depression, anxiety or even diseases like cancer or heart problems.

Perhaps most worryingly of all, stress isn't as obvious as something like a cold. Most of the time, you probably don't even realise you're going down that road until you crash head first into a wall. So here are four signs that you could be feeling the strain, and it could be time to do something about it.

1 – Lack of sleep. An obvious one, maybe, but if you're lying awake at night worrying about work, or money, or family, or anything, really, then that's not a great sign. Exhausted all day, wide awake at night... and the next morning, the cycle repeats itself. Even when we do drift off, our minds race with worries and can't shut off totally.

2 – Most of us have set hours at work, but shutting off mentally when the clock strikes 5pm is more challenging than it may seem. It kicks in as soon as the alarm goes off, takes up most of your day and then comes home with you at night. Feeling the strain physically, too? You're not alone. The anxiety prompts your body to send all kinds of hormones all over your body, making you tense and sore.

3 – Snapping at co-workers or loved ones. He only asked how your day was to be interested and supportive, not provocative. Many times when we're stressed, we don't have time or inclination to consider how we come across to people and how it may hurt their feelings. So that 'My day was fine dear, how was yours?' in your head may have come across rather differently in real life.

4 – So much to do. A pile of papers in your in-tray, a ton of tasks to get started on, but can't seem to get going? Classic, vicious cycle. The thought of doing the work is daunting you [or stressing] so much, that the worry takes over and you can't get going.

We'll have all felt these symptoms at some point. They're inevitable. The key is to try and control them, and stop them from taking over. First step is acknowledge and be aware of how you feel, and why. Try and take regular breaks from work and, more importantly, ask for help if you need it. Your body and brain will thank you for it in the long run!