Stress is a normal part of life, but it can take a toll on your mental, emotional, and physical health when it becomes overwhelming and constant. If you’re feeling stuck, exhausted, or anxious all the time, you may be experiencing chronic stress or anxiety.

At NHC, we understand that life can be challenging, especially when dealing with financial struggles, job insecurity, health concerns, or family stress. You don’t have to manage it alone. Our Behavioral Health team is here to help.

Read on to learn the signs of chronic stress and anxiety, how they impact your health, and where to get support.

What is Chronic Stress & Anxiety?

Stress happens when you face challenges, like struggling to pay bills, dealing with a difficult situation at home, or feeling overwhelmed at work. Some stress is temporary, but chronic stress sticks around, leaving you pressured and exhausted.

Anxiety is your body’s reaction to stress. It’s normal to feel nervous sometimes, but if anxiety doesn’t go away and starts interfering with daily life, it might be time to seek help.

Signs of Chronic Stress & Anxiety

Not everyone experiences stress and anxiety in the same way. But if you’ve had several of these symptoms for over a few weeks, it could be a sign that stress affects your health.

Mental & Emotional Signs

• Constant worry, fear, or feeling “on edge”
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, or emotionally numb
• Mood swings, frustration, or anger

Physical Signs

• Headaches, muscle tension, or body aches
• Trouble sleeping or constant fatigue
• Stomach problems (nausea, diarrhea, or loss of appetite)
• Fast heartbeat, dizziness, or shortness of breath

Behavioral Signs

• Avoiding responsibilities or social situations
• Eating too much or too little
• Increased use of alcohol or drugs to cope
• Trouble keeping up with daily tasks like cooking or cleaning

Related: 6 Reasons to Schedule Your Annual Checkup, Even When You Feel Fine

When to Seek Help

It may be time to seek support if stress or anxiety is:

• Lasting more than a few weeks
• Affecting your ability to work, take care of family, or complete daily tasks
• Causing frequent headaches, stomach pain, or trouble sleeping
• Leading you to withdraw from others or avoid responsibilities
• Making you feel hopeless or like things will never get better

If you are thinking about hurting yourself or need urgent mental health support, call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or visit 988lifeline.org for help.

How to Cope With Stress & Anxiety

While you can’t always eliminate stress from your life, there are ways to reduce its impact and improve your well-being.

• Find small ways to relax – Deep breathing, stretching, or taking a short walk can help.
• Stick to a routine – Try to eat balanced meals, get enough sleep, and move your body daily.
• Limit caffeine and alcohol – Too much can make stress and anxiety worse.
• Stay connected – Talk to friends, family, or a support group when you’re struggling.
• Challenge negative thoughts – When you start to spiral, ask yourself, “Is this thought helpful?”

But if stress or anxiety is making it hard to function, it’s time to reach out for professional support.

How NHC Can Help

You don’t need insurance or a referral to access mental health support at NHC. Our Behavioral Health team offers care in primary care clinics and school-based health centers.

Behavioral Health Consultants (BHCs) – Available in primary care clinics to help with stress, anxiety, and mental health concerns.
Behavioral Health Support – In-the-moment strategies to help manage stress, navigate challenges, and support your overall well-being.
Care Coordination – Help navigating resources like food, housing, and financial assistance.
Specialized Support – Pregnancy & parenting support and addiction recovery services.

Related: How NHC's Team Helps More Oregonians Access Healthcare

Take the First Step Toward Feeling Better

If stress or anxiety is affecting your life, help is available. You deserve to feel supported, and NHC is here to guide you.

Please call (503) 941-3033 to schedule an appointment.

Stress and anxiety are tough, but you don’t have to manage it alone. We’re here for you.

*Important Note: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. For personalized care and recommendations, please talk to your healthcare provider.

References

1. Yale Medicine. (n.d.). Stress Disorders: Chronic Stress & Its Impact on Health. Retrieved from https://www.yalemedicine.org/conditions/stress-disorder
2. National Institute of Mental Health. (n.d.). So Stressed Out: Fact Sheet. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/so-stressed-out-fact-sheet
3. Oregon Health Authority. (n.d.). Behavioral Health Services & Access Through OHP. Retrieved from https://www.oregon.gov/oha/hsd/ohp/pages/behavioral-health.aspx