Stress

Identifying physical and psychological responses to stress and understanding the cause of the stress itself are important factors in reducing its negative effects. Denying the existence of stress, on the other hand, is a contributing factor to intensifying those effects. Some physical signs are a dry mouth and throat; tight muscles in the neck, shoulders, and back; chronic neck and back problems; headaches; indigestion; tremors; muscle tics; insomnia; and fatigue. Emotional signs of stress include difficulty in concentrating, feeling tense, negative thinking, brooding, worrying, depression, anxiety, or feelings of worthless.

Irritability, restlessness, impulsive behavior, difficulty in making a decision, poor judgment, difficulty relating to—and mistrusting—people, as well as tobacco, alcohol, and drug use, may all be indications of stress.