Stress Management Make an Appointment Ask a Question Search Conditions Although it is natural to feel anxious or "stressed out" sometimes, anxiety and/or prolonged stress, or stress that goes ignored can be unhealthy. However, you can learn how to recognize both the physical and the emotional signs of stress and anxiety. Once you learn to recognize stress, then you will be much better able to use coping strategies to relieve your stress and ease your tension. Assess Your Stress Coping Strategies Identifying Stressors Stress at School Physical Signs of a Stress Response Increased or irregular blood pressure Insomnia Tight muscles Restlessness Shallow, rapid breathing Change in blood sugar Tight throat Cold extremities Elevated cholesterol Sweating Breathing difficulties Rapid pulse Headache Digestive upset Weight change Lack of energy Back or neck ache Knot in stomach Blurred vision High voice Emotional Signs of a Stress Response Irritability Forgetfulness Boredom Feeling of ‘emptiness' Anxiety Discouragement Decreased libido Lowered psychological resistance Feeling hopeless or helpless Anger Confusion Worrying Lack of concentration Fear Having read some of the physical and emotional signs of stress, can you think back to times when you have felt stress? If so, take a moment to write down specific things or times that have made you feel stressed. Writing down your thoughts will help you process and understand what causes you stress and why. Understanding these two things is fundamental to managing your stress.