It can also show up in ways that are not and can negatively impact behavior.  

Over the past few weeks, we have looked at physical and emotional stress along with some strategies for each of them that one can use in helping to deal with those.  As you have read so far, stress can show up in so many different ways, some quite obvious but also in ways that are not.  Behavioral stress is no different.

Here is a short list of symptoms that can show up when experiencing and exhibiting behavioral stress:

1. Changes in appetite - not eating or eating too much
2. Social withdrawal
3. Nail-biting, skin-picking, hair twirling, fidgeting, pacing
4. Fatigue, insomnia or disrupted sleep patterns
5. Being unable to keep up with daily tasks

To know more or find out what other behavioral symptoms to be aware of, here is a link to Healthline for you to check out and continue research into this topic:

Behavioral Symptoms of Stress

Now there are quite a few strategies that can be put into practice to help manage behavioral stress.  Here are six to be considered:

1. Establish your boundaries and stick to them.  What does this mean?  It means to say no when needed.
2. Write down your thoughts and feelings.  Prayerful journaling daily if possible and clear out what might be stuck in your mind.
3. Go outside and connect with nature, walking and breathing, while enjoying its benefits.
4. Eat healthy foods.  Create and maintain a balanced diet to support your body and mind.
5. Establish a nighttime routine that will help you to have consistent good-quality sleep.
6. Seek Support.  This is very important!  Find someone to talk to, someone who will be there for you.  It can be someone in your family, in your network of friends, or a therapist.

Here is a short list of strategies.  There are many others available but these are great to start with.  Start small.  First, limit your stressors the best you can.  It would also be helpful to take a look at your stressors and name them.  Next, choose one strategy to begin with.  As you do so, you will begin to build and create a lifestyle of habits that will support your health and well-being.  

If you do find that it is hard to stick to them on your own and would like my support, please reach out.  I am here, just ask.

Reach out to me here

Also, as I mentioned before, it is normal to experience stress from time to time.  However,  chronic stress can have negative effects on your health and well-being.  If it becomes unmanageable or is significantly impacting your life, please please don't hesitate to seek professional help.