How to Recognize Stress Symptoms in Men

Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsPhysical Stress Symptoms in MenPsychological Stress Symptoms in MenStress in Men vs. WomenHow Men Can Cope With Stress

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Table of Contents

Physical Stress Symptoms in Men

Psychological Stress Symptoms in Men

Stress in Men vs. Women

How Men Can Cope With Stress

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Stressimpacts each individual in a unique way. However, there is evidence that, in general, men and women have different psychological and biological responses to stress. In comparison to women, men have a stronger stress response and may react with higher levels of aggression and more unhealthy coping behaviors, all of which can impact their physical health.

While some amount ofstress may be motivating, chronic stress can lead to a slew of mental and physical issues that can impact your overall quality of life.Because men and women may react to and process stress differently, it’s important to recognize the symptoms in men so they can manage stress effectively.

At a Glance

Why You May Be Carrying Stress in Your Shoulders and Neck

In general, stress can be experiencedphysically and psychologically, with both expressions of stress having an interrelated relationship.

For example, research has shown thatchronic stresscan lead to decreased immune function and an increased risk of infection.Research has found that stress not only slows wound healing, but it also plays a part inalcohol use, disrupted sleep, andsocial withdrawal.

Physical symptoms of stress may include:

Do not ignore physical issues even if you believe they are solely stress-related. It’s always best to check in with your doctor to make sure you are not experiencing any underlying medical conditions and/or mental health disorders.

Physiological Symptoms of Stress

Recognizing psychological symptoms of stress early on may help prevent your stress from escalating to a chronic level. Psychological symptoms of stress may include:

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Stress tends to manifest differently in men and women for a variety of reasons including differences in biological factors, immunity, sex hormones, andfight-or-flight responses. Because of these differences, research indicates that in general:

Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis Response

The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (stress response system) and the sympathetic nervous system have a greater response in men vs. women when exposed to the same stressor. This puts men more at risk for experiencing an increase in aggression, cardiovascular disease, and decreased immune functioning.

Stress tends to activate different areas of the brain in men and women. When exposed to the same stressors, men experience a stronger stress response than women, and have a higher amount ofcortisolmeasured in their saliva.

Greater Fight-or-Flight Response

Because of differences inbrain responses, men may be more likely to react with the fight-or-flight response under stress compared to women, who show more of a pattern of tend-and-befriend. This increases men’s susceptibility to high levels of stress during certain situations when compared to women.

Increased Pain Perception

Chronic painmay impact men differently because of the relationship between testosterone, stress, and pain. Testosterone mitigates feelings of pain. But stress can decrease levels of testosterone and increase cortisol, thus intensifying feelings of pain.

Keep in mind that each individual’s unique culture, religious beliefs, upbringing, early experiences ofchildhood trauma(if applicable), and genetic factors can all play a role inhow stress is processed in menand women.

18 Effective Stress Relief Strategies

When it comes tomanaging stress, the first step is recognizing it. If you feel more irritable, angry, tired, or upset lately, it’s time to take a look at how stress may be affecting you.

Having a toolbox of effective stress management techniques can help you cope with stress and limit its negative effects on your life and health. Some coping strategies you may find helpful include:

It’s also important to practice good self-care when dealing with stress. Regular physical exercise can be a great way to ease stress—plus, research has shown that engaging in exercise can relieve and prevent symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Unfortunately, men are often deterred from seeking treatment for mental health issues due to traditional masculine gender roles and socialization.  Traditional masculinity is often connected to traits like self-reliance, stoicism, and invulnerability. This not only decreases support; it also creates more stress.

While men often avoid asking for help, there’s nothing wrong with needing some extra support. If theeffects of stressare interfering with your life, consult your doctor.

A doctor can give you advice, address any medical issues, and make referrals to other professionals, such as acounselor.Stress managementis essential to your well-being and is something that should be prioritized.

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13 Sources

Verywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

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