Uncommon Symptoms of Anxiety & Stress (and 3 Quick Ways to Find Relief)

A person sitting calmly in nature, practicing relaxation techniques to reduce stress and anxiety, as described in the blog.

Anxiety and stress don’t always show up in the ways you might expect. While many people associate them with racing thoughts, a pounding heart, or restlessness, they can also manifest in some surprising—and often confusing—ways. If you've ever felt "off" but couldn't quite pinpoint why, your body might be signaling anxiety in ways you don’t recognize.

Here are some lesser-known symptoms of anxiety and stress, plus three quick tips to help you feel better in the moment.

Uncommon Symptoms of Anxiety & Stress

1. Brain Fog & Forgetfulness

Struggling to remember simple things or feeling like your thoughts are swimming through molasses? Chronic stress can overload your nervous system, making it harder to focus and recall information.

2. Jaw Pain & Teeth Grinding

Waking up with a sore jaw or experiencing unexplained facial tension? Anxiety often leads to clenching your jaw or grinding your teeth—sometimes without you even realizing it.

3. Skin Sensitivity or Itching

Stress can trigger inflammation, causing unexplained itching, rashes, or even a sensation like your skin is crawling. If your skin feels extra sensitive without a clear cause, stress could be the culprit.

4. Digestive Issues

Ever feel nauseous before a big event or experience random stomach pain? Your gut and brain are deeply connected, meaning stress and anxiety can wreak havoc on digestion.

5. Unusual Fatigue or Muscle Twitches

If you feel exhausted even after a full night’s sleep or experience random muscle twitches, it could be your body’s way of reacting to prolonged stress.

3 Quick Ways to Find Relief

1. Diaphragmatic (Belly) Breathing

Deep breathing can instantly reduce stress and bring a sense of calm:

• Place one hand on your chest and the other on your belly.

• Inhale deeply through your nose, allowing your belly to expand while keeping your chest still.

• Exhale slowly through your mouth.

• Repeat for several breaths, focusing on the rise and fall of your belly. Belly breathing helps regulate the nervous system and encourages relaxation.

2. Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR)

Tense and release different muscle groups, starting from your toes and working up to your head. This helps reduce tension and signals to your body that it’s safe to relax.

3. Cold Water Therapy

Splash cold water on your face, hold an ice pack to your wrist, or take a quick cold shower. The sudden temperature shift activates your parasympathetic nervous system, which helps calm anxiety fast.

If you’re experiencing these symptoms and feel overwhelmed, you’re not alone. Anxiety and stress are more manageable with the right support. A compassionate therapist can help you uncover the root causes and develop personalized strategies to bring you relief.

Ready to take the next step toward feeling better? Let’s talk. Book a session today, and let’s work together to bring more calm and clarity into your life.