Stress
How to identify the bad ones
So what?
ICYMI Feeling frazzled, stretched thin, or just plain overwhelmed? You’re certainly not alone. Stress is an inevitable part of modern life, but here’s the thing: not all stress is bad. That jolt of energy that helps you hit a deadline or perform under pressure is “good stress” (eustress), and it can be a powerful motivator. The problem starts when that pressure never lets up. Chronic “bad stress” (distress) is a different beast entirely. It’s the kind that lingers, grinding you down day after day. So, how can you tell when everyday pressure has crossed the line and started to negatively affect your health? Recognising the red flags is the critical first step to getting back in balance. In this essential series, we’ll uncover the 8 common signs that stress is negatively affecting you, helping you spot the signals your body is sending before they become a bigger problem.
Changes in Eating Habits
Let’s talk about the relationship between your mood and your food. Do you find that when stress hits, you reach straight for the sugary, high-carb comfort foods? Or does your stomach tie itself in such a tight knot that the very thought of food is unappealing? These changes in eating habits are not a matter of weak willpower; they are a biological SOS. When cortisol levels spike, your body often demands quick, accessible energy (hello, chocolate), leading to stress eating or “emotional eating.” Conversely, acute stress can trigger a “fight or flight” response that shuts down digestion entirely. This fluctuation is a clear indicator that your body is chemically reacting to pressure. Which camp do you fall into? Are you a “stress snacker” seeking comfort, or do you lose your appetite completely when the pressure is on?
Social Withdrawal
This is perhaps the most deceptive sign of all. When you are overwhelmed, your instinct might be to “hunker down” and conserve energy. You start cancelling plans, avoiding calls, and skipping the social events that usually bring you joy. This social withdrawal feels like a protective measure in the moment—that sweet relief of a cancelled plan—but it often leads to a dangerous cycle of isolation. Just when you need a support network the most, stress tricks you into pushing everyone away because you feel you simply don’t have the “social battery” to engage. Social isolation from stress can turn a temporary struggle into a lonely battle. Be honest with yourself: When was the last time you cancelled a plan not because you were busy, but because you just couldn’t face the social interaction?
What now?
- Don’t let this be just another article you read and forget. Pick one small thing to change this week. Maybe it’s booking that long-overdue appointment with your GP to discuss a Mental Health Care Plan. Maybe it’s simply texting a friend to say, “I’m struggling a bit.”