It is common to show signs of stress, and it is important to know when to ask for help if these lead to distress. Signs of distress may include:
Eating or sleeping too much or too little
Pulling away from people and things
Having low or no energy
Feeling numb or like nothing matters
Having unexplained aches and pains
Feeling helpless or hopeless
Smoking, drinking, or using drugs more than you should
Yelling or fighting with family & friends
Having thoughts and memories you can’t get out of your head
Feeling unusually confused or forgetful; on edge, angry, or upset; or worried and scared
Unable to perform basic, simple tasks
Thinking of hurting or killing yourself or someone else
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, they are persisting, and are making it hard to get things done or get through your day, please refer to your Support Network card and seek professional help:
SAMHSA’s National Helpline: Toll-Free: 1-800-662-HELP (4357) Website: www.samhsa.gov
US National Suicide Prevention Hotline/Crisis Line: Toll-Free: 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) TTY: 1-800-799-4TTY (1-800-799-4889) Website: https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/talk-to-someone-now/
First Aid for Attempted Suicide: https://pacificmedicalacls.com/first-aid-for-attempted-suicide.html
If you are outside of the United State, please make note of the national resources available to you.
SOURCE: Adapted from coping with distress materials developed by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration at http://disasterdistress.samhsa.gov
