Common Signs and Symptoms


Everyone can feel stress in a different way, but there are some signs and symptoms that are fairly common. The following is a list of the 50 most frequent signs and symptoms of how stress can present:

50 Common Signs and Symptoms of Stress


  1. Frequent headaches, jaw clenching or pain
  2. Gritting, grinding teeth
  3. Stuttering or stammering
  4. Tremors, trembling of lips, hands
  5. Neck ache, back pain, muscle spasms
  6. Light headedness, faintness, dizziness
  7. Ringing, buzzing or "popping sounds"
  8. Frequent blushing, sweating
  9. Cold or sweaty hands, feet
  10. Dry mouth, problems swallowing
  11. Frequent colds, infections, herpes sores
  12. Rashes, itching, hives, "goose bumps"
  13. Unexplained or frequent "allergy" attacks
  14. Heartburn, stomach pain, nausea
  15. Excess belching, flatulence
  16. Constipation, diarrhea, loss of control
  17. Difficulty breathing, frequent sighing
  18. Sudden attacks of life threatening panic
  19. Chest pain, palpitations, rapid pulse
  20. Frequent urination
  21. Diminished sexual desire or performance
  22. Excess anxiety, worry, guilt, nervousness
  23. Increased anger, frustration, hostility
  24. Depression, frequent or wild mood swings
  25. Increased or decreased appetite
  1. Insomnia, nightmares, disturbing dreams
  2. Difficulty concentrating, racing thoughts
  3. Trouble learning new information
  4. Forgetfulness, disorganization, confusion
  5. Difficulty in making decisions
  6. Feeling overloaded or overwhelmed
  7. Frequent crying spells or suicidal thoughts
  8. Feelings of loneliness or worthlessness
  9. Little interest in appearance, punctuality
  10. Nervous habits, fidgeting, feet tapping
  11. Increased frustration, irritability, edginess
  12. Overreaction to petty annoyances
  13. Increased number of minor accidents
  14. Obsessive or compulsive behaviour
  15. Reduced work efficiency or productivity
  16. Lies or excuses to cover up poor work
  17. Rapid or mumbled speech
  18. Excessive defensiveness or suspiciousness
  19. Problems in communication, sharing
  20. Social withdrawl and isolation
  21. Constant tiredness, weakness, fatigue
  22. Frequent use of over-the-counter drugs
  23. Weight gain or loss without diet
  24. Increased smoking, alcohol or drug use
  25. Excessive gambling or impulse buying
Courtesy of The American Institute of Stress, www.stress.org