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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