Stress affects everyone, but, according to the website Stress Focus, it affects women twice as much as men. The Cleveland Clinic attributes this to women being socialized to take care of everyone around them. Many symptoms of stress can double as symptoms of other health issues, so it is best to consult your physician for advice on treating your symptoms.
Physical Symptoms
When your body feels the effects of stress it reacts negatively. Every part of your body can suffer from your head to your toes. You may experience headaches, backaches and chest pains or heart palpitations. According to the Mayo Clinic your stomach may be upset and you may have trouble sleeping when you are under extreme stress.
Another physical symptom of stress, according to Stress Focus, is "the diving reflex." Symptoms of this condition are cold, clammy hands, frequent stools and dryness of your throat, making it difficult to speak or swallow.
Physical exercise is one way of helping your muscles relax. Meditation is another technique to help your body deal with stress.
Psychological Symptoms
If you are depressed or irritable, your mind may be reacting negatively to stress. Other psychological symptoms of stress include forgetfulness or lack of focus. You may feel exhausted, irritable or burned out. You may notice mood swings---happy and relaxed one moment, but feeling depressed and nervous the next.
Psychological responses to stress can affect your job performance or coping abilities, leading to more stress. Mental health professionals are trained to help women find ways to manage their stress to avoid these problems.
Behavioral Symptoms
Many women turn to food or negative vices such as alcohol or drugs to deal with stress. These are two behavioral symptoms of stress. Some women may cry from intense pressures or withdraw, opting to stay in bed rather than do normal activities. Other women take out their worries on their friends and family causing relationship problems, which can result in more stress. The website, Women's Health, actually advises women to turn to their support systems, such as friends and family, instead of away from them, in times of stress. Sometimes talking through your problems can help alleviate your stress.
