Every thought elicits a physiological reaction. Stress and anxiety create internal tension, which is made evident by its effects on the body. Today, stress is a leading contributor to physical illness and emotional disorder. People respond to anxiety in different ways, but stress can still be identified by some common symptoms that outline affliction.
Signs of Battle
Chronic activation of the stress response results in depleted energy levels within the individual, and noticeable wear and tear on his appearance. When a person feels stressed, the mind responds as if he is being attacked. The sympathetic nervous system (SNS) prepares the body for "fight or flight", either to engage in combat or flee to safety. Blood is drawn into the muscles and away from areas deemed unnecessary to survival. Cognitive function decreases, while "stress hormones" such as cortisol and adrenaline (epinephrine) flood the system. These chemicals cause the heart rate to accelerate, temporarily boost muscle strength and raise the blood pressure. This process puts the body through tremendous strain. Along with the drain on vitality, the lips, eyelids and face of a highly stressed individual will likely become thin and pale as blood moves out of the mucosa. This will also cause the lower eyelid to droop, making the person look older.
Mental Functioning
The repeated release of epinephrine and cortisol damage the body in ways that go beyond the physiological. Excessive anxiety can result in loss of short-term memory, cognitive difficulties, spontaneous states of confusion and racing thoughts. The amygdala gland is highly involved in the processing of emotional arousal. When inordinately active, the result is a state of mental disarrangement that can literally grind down your mind.
Social Manifestations
Progressively, the sense of inner imbalance brought on by stress and anxiety will separate a person from her identity. She will often isolate herself and begin to move away from social groups. A highly stressed individual may show signs of despair and become indifferent to everyday responsibilities. Continuing episodes of anxiety will distort her perspective of others' behavior. Everything becomes personal, and minor transgressions may elicit inappropriate fits of anger.
Nervous Habits
A nervous tick is a physiological response to internal anxiety. It is an attempt to release the unabated emotional buildup, left by high arousal. A person under high stress may habituate nervous behaviors such as pacing, grinding the teeth and nail biting.
