What are some signs that stress may
be affecting you? If you are
experiencing a lot of stress in your life, you may notice physical side effects
or changes in your behavior.
Some physical signs of stress are:
- Headaches
- Loss of appetite or eating too much
- Body aches and pains
- Pounding heart
- Grinding teeth
- Stomach/bowel problems
Some ways that stress might affect your
behavior:
- Misuse of alcohol or drugs
- Mood swings
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Nightmares
- Worrying
- Becoming forgetful
- Difficulty sleeping
You might benefit from learning how to
manage stress if:
- You think about your cancer first thing every morning and last
thing every night
- You are frightened or upset by minor aches and pains
- You think that cancer has changed your life too much and you can't
figure out how to manage your life now
- You think that your family and friends do not understand you
Activities that might help you
relax:
- Take a walk/exercise/practice yoga
- Get a massage
- Practice breathing and relaxation techniques
- Talk to friends and family
- Talk with a professional therapist
- Attend a support group
- Make time for hobbies and things you enjoy
- Ask for help with daily activities such as housework, errands and
cooking
- Pray or meditate
- Write in a journal
- Listen to music
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