Fight-Or-Flight Reaction

The body's physiologic reaction to stress is called the fight-or-flight response. When exposed to a potentially threatening situation, your body goes on high alert in preparation to fight or run away.

Physical Symptoms Of Stress

• Muscle tension in the jaw and forehead
• Digestive changes, such as constipation or diarrhea
• Dry throat
• Fatigue
• High blood pressure
• Grinding of the teeth
• Headaches
• Indigestion
• Muscle aches
• Pounding of the heart
• Shortness of breath
• Upset stomach

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Mental Symptoms Of Stress

• Anger
• Anxiety
• Apathy
• Cynicism
• Defensiveness
• Depression
• Difficulty concentrating
• Feelings of helplessness, hopelessness or worthlessness
• Feelings of being misunderstood or unappreciated
• Hypersensitivity
• Insecurity
• Irritability
• Lack of direction
• Pessimism
• Resentment
• Sadness
• Insomnia
• Isolation or withdrawal from others
• Lessened enjoyment of activities that were once pleasurable
• Loss of appetite or, in contrast, overeating
• Loss of sexual desire
• Procrastination
• Readiness to argue

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Behavioral Symptoms Of Stress

• Increased smoking
• Increased use of alcohol or drugs
• Nail biting
• Neglect of responsibility
• Poor job performance
• Unusually poor hygiene

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