What physical symptom may indicate stress in adolescents?

Frequent headaches or stomach problems are common physical symptoms that can indicate stress in adolescents. Stress can manifest in a variety of ways, often leading to psychosomatic symptoms where emotional turmoil is expressed through physical pain or discomfort. Adolescents may experience increased anxiety and pressure from school, social interactions, or familial expectations, which can result in tension headaches, migraines, or gastrointestinal issues like stomach aches and nausea.

These symptoms can be a sign that the individual is overwhelmed by stressors in their life, and they often manifest when there is a misalignment between the adolescent's coping mechanisms and the demands they face. Addressing the root causes of stress rather than just the physical symptoms is essential for effective intervention and support for adolescents experiencing this challenge.