What can indicate high-stress levels in individuals?

High-stress levels in individuals can indeed be indicated by weight gain or loss. Stress can cause significant physiological and psychological changes in the body, affecting eating habits and hormone levels. For example, some people may experience a loss of appetite and subsequently lose weight due to stress, while others may turn to food for comfort, leading to weight gain. Both reactions are common responses to prolonged stress and can serve as important signals regarding an individual's mental health.

In contrast, increased productivity, enhanced focus, and creative problem-solving are often regarded as positive outcomes that can arise in response to manageable levels of stress, sometimes referred to as "eustress." In high-stress situations, while some people may initially feel more energized or motivated to perform, these responses often do not correlate with long-term health and wellness, making them less reliable indicators of high-stress levels compared to fluctuations in body weight.