Stress symptoms can occur when a person is faced with a challenge or threat. This challenge can be physical, such as a vicious dog about to attack, or it can be a psychological threat such as the fear of losing a job. Stress is inevitable, but too much stress that is poorly managed can lead to impairments. In most cases, the body's response to these challenges can be both physical and emotional. Emotional stress can persist when attempts to remove or handle the stress triggers have failed.
Anxiety
Some stress is beneficial because it provides focus, motivation and a sense of accomplishment. According to the Help Guide, too much long-term stress can lead to anxiety. Chronic anxiety can, in turn, lead to health problems, such as an increase in blood pressure and the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Anger
Stress can often lead to a short temper or chronic anger. The stress caused by a demanding boss can lead to anger that is inappropriate to vent in the workplace. Consequently, this anger may be unleashed at home with bewildered family members who are thought to be safer targets.
Irritability
The demands of work, family and children are common stressors for many. Some people can manage these demands successfully, while others buckle under the pressure, often becoming irritable and impatient when confronted by many responsibilities. These feelings of annoyance inhibit a person's well-being, which then prevent successfully managing life's pressures.
Fear
Fear can be helpful in situations where caution is warranted. Unhealthy responses to stress include feeling fearful and avoiding circumstances that produce the fear. Avoiding the situation then becomes rewarding in the short term, but it does not promote overcoming the distressing situation.
Worry
Feelings of worry and stress can go hand-in-hand. The University of Idaho's Counseling and Testing Center states that worry can beneficial in instances where planning is needed, such as preparing for a big exam. Worry becomes problematic when thought patterns of worst case scenarios keep persisting.
Frustration
Some stressful situations can be fixed by taking action, such as taking steps to resolve a difficult relationship. Frustration can ensue when there appears to be no way to resolve the issue and stress persists. Frustration can be an unhealthy emotion, because it leads to more feelings of hopelessness and despair.
Depression
Daniel K. Hall-Flavin, M.D., a psychiatrist with the Mayo Clinic, points out that chronic stress can wear a person down which, in turn, can develop into depression. While no one can escape life stressors, it is important to manage these in healthy, productive ways. There are many ways to manage stress, such as reducing obligations, exercise and meditation. It is important to seek treatment from a qualified professional if you are unable to manage your stress or if you are having symptoms of depression.
