Women often become stressed because of all the demands in their lives. Some amount of stress in life is healthy, but when it begins to pile up, it can be too much to bear. Women and men handle stress differently. For example, women are more likely than men to suffer physical symptoms of stress, according to WomensHealth.gov. But every woman responds to stress differently. When it begins to take its toll, signs and symptoms often develop, but they may be subtle and difficult to recognize in yourself and others.
Mood Changes
Women who are stressed may begin to have frequent mood swings or seem more irritable than normal, according to the Cleveland Clinic. They may also exhibit anger and hostility toward others.
Difficulty Concentrating
Stress can cause women to have trouble concentrating or seem as though they lack focus or direction, according to WomensHealth.gov. In addition, they have trouble staying on task or have difficulty completing projects and may seem forgetful or easily distracted.
Eating Habits
Women who are feeling stressed often change their eating habits. In some cases, women may start skipping meals or begin eating very little, according to WomensHealth.gov. Other women begin eating much more than usual. Women who smoke and/or drink may also find themselves turning to alcohol and cigarettes more frequently than before.
Pain
Stress can manifest itself physically in the form of aches and pains. Some women experience general aches and pains throughout the body. Others develop back pain or suffer from frequent headaches, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Stomach Upset
Another way that stress can physically manifest itself in women is through an upset stomach or a feeling of nausea, according to the American Institute of Stress. Some women also experience heartburn because of stress.
Trouble Sleeping
Difficulty sleeping or frequently waking at night can also be signs of stress, according to WomensHealth.gov. Some women also have frequent nightmares when they are stressed.
Control
When women are stressed out, they often feel like things are spinning out of control and they don't have control over their lives, according to WomensHealth.gov. Some women also suddenly want much more control over every aspect of their lives.
