Which symptom can be caused by stress overload?

Muscle tension is a common symptom that occurs as a result of stress overload. When a person experiences significant stress, their body reacts by tensing muscles as part of the 'fight or flight' response. This physical reaction is a natural defense mechanism, as tensed muscles prepare the body for potential action, whether to confront or escape the stressor. Over time, if the stress is chronic, this tension can lead to discomfort, pain, and various health issues, such as headaches or back problems, making it a particularly significant impact of stress on physical wellbeing.

In contrast, while increased motivation, external distractions, and heightened excitement can sometimes occur in specific contexts or phases of stress or excitement, they do not consistently represent the typical physiological responses associated with stress overload. Such responses are more positive or neutral rather than reflecting the adverse effects that muscle tension embodies in situations of excessive stress.