Stress Check: Signs of a Problem

Excessive stress can sneak up on students over time, and they may not notice it until they begin to experience its physical or emotional effects. Too much stress can lead to unhealthy and potentially serious physical and emotional consequences. If any of these warning signs persist over a series of weeks or interfere with your child’s ability to function, it’s important to reach out for help.

• Changes in sleep patterns (taking longer to fall asleep, waking up tired, not feeling well rested)
• Changes in eating patterns
• Increased frequency of headaches
• More short-tempered than usual
• Recurring colds and minor illnesses
• Frequent muscle ache and/or tightness
• More disorganized than usual
• Increased difficulty in task completion
• A greater sense of persistent time pressure
• Increased generalized frustration and anger

If you think your child is experiencing higher than typical stress levels, urge him to contact the school’s mental health or counseling center.