10 Signs You Might Be More Stressed Than You Think

Stress doesn’t always show up the way we expect. Sometimes it’s loud—racing thoughts, snapping at loved ones, constant tension in your shoulders. But other times, it’s subtle, creeping into your routines and mindset until you’re not quite sure when you stopped feeling like yourself.
Here are ten signs you might be more stressed than you realize:
1. You’re Always Tired, Even After Rest
If you’re getting enough sleep but still feel drained, stress could be slowly and silently wearing you down. Chronic stress keeps your body in a state of “high alert,” which can be exhausting over time.
2. You’re More Forgetful or Distracted Than Usual
Trouble focusing or remembering simple things? Stress overload can take over your brain’s ability to concentrate or retain information.
3. You’re Irritable or on Edge
If little things set you off more than they used to, it might be stress talking. Emotional reactivity is a common symptom when your nervous system is overworked.
4. You’re Getting Sick More Often
Stress affects your immune system, making you more vulnerable to colds, headaches, or digestive issues. Learn more about how stress impacts your body from the APA.
5. You’ve Lost Interest in Things You Normally Enjoy
Losing your interest in hobbies, socializing, or activities you once loved might be a sign of emotional burnout linked to ongoing stress.
6. Your Sleep Patterns Are Off
Trouble falling asleep, waking up frequently throughout the night, or sleeping too much can all be tied to stress.
7. You Feel Restless
Feeling like you can’t relax, even when nothing urgent is happening, may be your body’s way of staying in “survival mode.”
8. You’re Using Coping Tools More Often—And Not the Healthy Kind
Reaching more frequently for alcohol, junk food, endless scrolling, or even overworking can be a sign that stress is creeping in under the surface.
9. You’ve Been Isolating
Withdrawing from people—even those you’re close to—can be your mind’s quiet way of saying, “I’m overwhelmed.”
10. You’re Overly Self-Critical
When stress builds, so does inner criticism. You might feel like you’re falling short, even when you’re doing your best.

So…What Now?
If a few (or more) of these signs sound familiar, it doesn’t mean something is “wrong” with you. It means you’re human—and you’ve likely been carrying more than you should have to carry alone.
Talking to a therapist can help you unpack what’s underneath the stress, build healthy coping strategies, and start to feel like you again.
Feeling overwhelmed? Let’s talk.
We’re here to support you through life’s stressful moments—with compassion, tools, and real strategies that work.

Our team of therapists is here to help.

Book a session today and take the first step toward feeling lighter and more in control.