Stress Symptoms - Men

Understanding the symptoms of stress in men means you can better recognise and address stress and take proactive steps towards a healthier and more balanced life. 

Exact symptoms can vary, but the common manifestations of stress in men include:

Physical symptoms in men

• Muscle tension: Increased muscle tension, particularly in the neck, shoulders, and back. This can result in stiffness, aches, or muscle spasms.
• Digestive issues: Can affect the gastrointestinal system, leading to symptoms such as stomach aches, indigestion, bloating, or changes in bowel habits.
• Headaches: Stress can contribute to tension headaches or migraines, which may range from mild discomfort to severe pain.
• Sexual dysfunction: Can impact sexual health, leading to difficulties with erectile function, decreased libido, or other sexual performance issues.
• Sleep disturbances: Can disrupt sleep patterns, causing difficulties falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing restless sleep.

Emotional, behavioural symptoms in men

• Anger - irritability: May be prone to anger and irritability when stressed, leading to a shorter temper or increased frustration.
• Emotional withdrawal: Can cause men to withdraw emotionally, making them less inclined to share their feelings or seek support from others. This can lead to anxiety.
• Increased risk-taking: Some men may engage in risky behaviours, such as excessive drinking, substance abuse, or reckless driving, as a maladaptive way to cope with stress.
• Workaholism: May become excessively focused on work or other activities to distract themselves from stress, leading to an imbalance between work and personal life.
• Social isolation: May isolate themselves from social interactions and withdraw from activities they once enjoyed as a response to stress.

Cognitive symptoms of Stress in men

• Difficulty concentrating: Can impair concentration, making it challenging to focus on tasks or maintain attention for extended periods.
• Memory problems: May experience difficulties with memory and recall when under significant stress, leading to forgetfulness or lapses in memory.
• Impaired decision-making: Can cloud judgment and negatively impact decision-making abilities, making it harder to make rational choices.
• Negative thinking patterns: May develop negative thought patterns, including excessive worry, self-doubt, or pessimism in response to stress.

Recognising and addressing Stress in men

Identifying the core symptoms of stress specific to men is essential for effectively managing stress. 

Remember, you are not alone, and there are strategies available to help you manage and overcome stress. Find out more about the key stress symptoms and the main causes of stress. 

Take control of your health today, understand the causes of stress and start striving for a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Disclaimer: The information provided by Old Bull Health in this article is for informational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice. Our content is not intended to be medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and thus reliance should not be placed on it. If you are experiencing symptoms, please consult a healthcare professional.