Stress is a fact of life. However, it can be hard to recognize when it starts to take a toll on us. In many cases, stress can manifest in ways that don’t seem like typical stress symptoms.

This is why it’s important to be aware of the subtler indicators of stress.

1. Indecisiveness

When you’re stressed, it can be hard to make decisions. This indecisiveness can be a sign of stress overload. You may find yourself overthinking and analyzing every option, which can lead to decision paralysis.

2. Memory loss

Stress can take such a toll on your body that it can even affect your memory. You may find yourself forgetting important details, such as appointments or deadlines, which can lead to even more stress.

3. Constant worry

One of the most common signs of stress is constant worry. You may find yourself worrying about things that are outside of your control, which can lead to heightened anxiety.

4. Lack of motivation

When you’re stressed, it can be hard to find the motivation to get things done. You may feel overwhelmed and unable to focus on anything, which can lead to a lack of productivity.

5. Procrastination

Procrastination is another sign of stress. You may be tempted to put things off when you feel stressed, but this can lead to even more stress later on when you’re trying to meet deadlines.

6. Physical ailments

Stress can have a profound effect on your physical health. It can lead to headaches, muscle tension, and even stomach problems.

7. Sleep problems

When you’re stressed, it can be hard to get a good night’s sleep. You may find yourself tossing and turning, or waking up feeling unrested.

8. Mood swings

Stress can cause mood swings and emotional instability. You may find yourself feeling irritable, anxious, or depressed.

9. Change in appetite

Stress can affect your appetite, causing you to either overeat or under-eat. This can lead to weight gain or weight loss, both of which can be stressful in their own right.

When you’re stressed, you may feel the need to withdraw from social activities. This can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation, which can make the stress even worse.

11. Easily triggered

When you’re stressed, even the smallest things can trigger an emotional reaction. You may find yourself getting angry or upset over things that wouldn’t normally bother you.

12. Tension in relationships

Stress can put a strain on your relationships, both personal and professional. You may find yourself arguing with loved ones, coworkers, or friends more frequently.

13. Neglecting self-care

When you’re stressed, it can be hard to find the time or energy to take care of yourself. You may neglect basic self-care tasks, such as showering, grooming, or exercise.

14. Impatience

Stress can make you feel like you’re running out of time. This can lead to impatience with yourself and others, which can cause additional stress and tension.

15. Restlessness

When you’re stressed, it can be hard to sit still. You may find yourself constantly fidgeting or pacing, which can be a sign of restlessness and anxiety.

16. Lack of energy

Stress can be physically and emotionally draining. You may feel constantly tired or fatigued, which can make it hard to get anything done.

17. Overreacting

When you’re stressed, you may find yourself overreacting to situations that wouldn’t normally bother you. This can cause additional stress and tension in your relationships.

18. Increased alcohol or drug use

Stress can lead to increased use of drugs or alcohol as a way to cope. This can be dangerous and lead to even more problems down the line.

19. Perfectionism

When you’re stressed, you may feel like everything has to be perfect. This can lead to an unhealthy obsession with perfectionism, which can cause even more stress and anxiety.

20. Avoiding responsibilities

When you’re stressed, you may find yourself avoiding responsibilities as a way to cope. This can lead to even more stress and anxiety down the line as deadlines creep up on you.

21. Difficulty focusing

Stress can make it hard to focus on tasks at hand. You may find yourself easily distracted, which can make it hard to be productive.

22. Poor time management

When you’re stressed, it can be hard to manage your time effectively. You may find yourself constantly behind schedule, which can lead to even more stress and anxiety.

23. Self-doubt

Stress can make you doubt yourself and your abilities. You may feel like you’re not good enough or that you’re constantly making mistakes.

24. Perpetual lateness

When you’re stressed, it can be hard to be on time for appointments and meetings. You may find yourself constantly running late, which can cause additional stress and tension.

25. Nervous habits

Stress can cause nervous habits, such as nail-biting, hair-twirling, or foot-tapping. These habits can be a sign of anxiety and restlessness.

26. Difficulty relaxing

When you’re stressed, it can be hard to relax and unwind. You may find yourself constantly worrying or feeling anxious, even when you’re trying to take a break.

27. Negative self-talk

Stress can lead to negative self-talk, where you’re constantly criticizing yourself and your abilities. This can be damaging to your self-esteem and lead to even more stress and anxiety.

28. Unrealistic expectations

When you’re stressed, you may set unrealistic expectations for yourself. This can lead to disappointment and feelings of failure, which can cause even more stress and anxiety.

29. Constant busyness

When you’re stressed, you may feel like you have to be constantly busy. You may fill every moment of your day with tasks and activities, which can be exhausting and lead to burnout.

30. Denial

Finally, one of the most deceptive indicators of stress is denial. You may not even realize that you’re stressed, or you may downplay the severity of your stress levels.