Symptoms of Stress Overload

Stress is subjective and varies from one male to another. Stages of life are also a factor in determining stress level. Created in 1967 by Thomas Holmes and Richard Rahe, the Social Readjustment Ratings Scale (SRRS) served as a forerunner in evaluating stress by ranking a list of events that appeared to manifest stress in the general male population. Recognizing that this list was contrived over 40 years ago, it may still serve to determine possible stress overload. For example, losing a spouse or selling one’s home and moving still represent significant loss and change that contributes to higher levels of stress. For men, the list may be a tool for assessing personal stress. Physical signs of stress may also indicate health problems. Regular examinations by your physician are recommended to prevent the onset of stress and treat existing stress.

  • Chest pain including  pounding heart or heart palpitations, shortness of breath, tightness in throat or chest
  • Panic attacks
  • Dizziness
  • Exhaustion
  • Abdominal pain
  • Irregular bowel movements including constipation or diarrhea
  • Lack of sex drive, sexual dysfunction
  • High blood pressure
  • Headaches
  • Stomach cramps or indigestion
  • Skin rash or break-outs, acne
  • Weight gain or loss, obesity
  • Lowered immunity
  • Increased amount of perspiration accompanied by pungent odor
  • Grinding teeth
  • Sadness accompanied by crying, depression
  • Isolation or complete withdrawal
  • Sleeplessness
  • Mood swings from apathy to anger, or manic behavior
  • Restlessness
  • Change in appetite including loss or binging
  • Worrisome, insecure
  • Twitching or trembling
  • Loss of job satisfaction and productivity
  • Drug and alcohol overuse or abuse
  • Fewer males born to stressful fathers
  • Obesity

* Heart disease
* Abnormal heart beats
* Burn-out, cynicism

Prevention
Diet for Mental Health
Symptoms of Stress Overload
Occurrence
Causes
Preparation for Medical Appointment
Support from Health Care Providers
Cultural Attitudes about Male Stress
Psychological Implications of Male Stress or Loss of Control
Career/Employment
Tests and Diagnosis
Treatment with Prescription Drugs
Risk Factors and Warnings
Coping and Support