A 'fight or flight' response by the body produces surges of chemical reactions in the blood stream and physical and psychological reactions. Since everyone is different and this is a whole body reaction, the outcome of regular, excessive pressures are not the same. The symptoms are very unique to each individual, but these are a few possible outcomes commonly associated with excessive pressures:
Physical symptoms: difficulties falling asleep when your mind is racing, tension headaches and sometimes migraines, digestive disorders, skin conditions such as dry, itchy and irritated skin, fatigue and exhaustion, neck, shoulder and back pain.
Emotional symptoms: irritability, loss of sense of humour, aggression, withdrawal, tearfulness, forgetfulness, loss of concentration, confusion, lack of interest.
Reference: International Stress Management Association (ISMA). ISMAUK is a registered charity which promotes stress prevention and well-being. For further information or if you are looking for a stress counsellor either for your organisation or yourself, visit www.isma.org.uk .