Sometimes it’s hard to tell, so pay attention
Stress can have a negative effect on your health. You may think that irritating headache or frequent insomnia is caused by an illness. But stress may be the culprit.
Stress symptoms can affect your body, your thoughts and feelings, and your behavior. Recognizing common stress symptoms when they show up makes them easier to manage. Stress that’s left unchecked contributes to many health problems, including high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, and diabetes.
| Here’s how stress can affect: | ||
| Your body | Your mood | Your behavior |
| Headache | Anxiety | Overeating or undereating |
| Muscle tension or pain | Restlessness | Angry outbursts |
| Chest pain | Lack of motivation or focus | Drug or alcohol misuse |
| Fatigue | Feeling overwhelmed | Tobacco use |
| Change in sex drive | Irritability or anger | Social withdrawal |
| Stomach upset | Sadness or depression | Exercising less often |
| Sleep problems |
If you experience any of these symptoms (and who doesn’t?!?), taking steps to manage your stress has many health benefits.
Here are some ways to actively manage stress:
- Regular physical activity
- Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, tai chi, or massage
- Maintaining a sense of humor
- Spending time with family and friends
- Setting aside time for hobbies, such as reading a book or listening to music
Inactive ways to manage stress — such as watching television, scrolling on your phone, or playing video games — may seem relaxing at first, but over time they can lead to increased stress.
During difficult stressful times consider seeing a professional counselor or therapist who can help you identify sources of your stress and learn new coping tools.
If you’re not sure if stress is the cause of your symptoms, see your doctor. Your healthcare provider may want to check for other potential causes.
NOTE: Get emergency help immediately if you have chest pain, especially if you also have shortness of breath, jaw or back pain, pain radiating into your shoulder and arm, sweating, dizziness, or nausea. These may be warning signs of a heart attack.
Where to find help
If you or someone you know is struggling and needs support, the Employee Assistance Program is available at no cost to all GE Appliances and Roper employees. Find out more about EAP services below.
U.S.
Phone: 855-873-4932
Online: AnthemEAP.com | Code: GEAppliances (Roper employees enter code: Roper)
India
Online: 1to1Help
Onsite options:
Appliance Park & The Forum
CareATC Wellness Center
careatc.com/patients to schedule an appointment
502-452-0777
Roper
Wellness Center, powered by CareATC
careatc.com/patients to schedule an appointment
706-638-3559