When to see a physio or doctor

Our bodies often carry the weight of stress before our minds catch up, and knowing when to get professional help can save you weeks of discomfort.

What it is

Stress and mental strain don't stay in the mind. They show up as tight shoulders, headaches, stomach troubles, jaw clenching and low energy. Sometimes these are simply signals to slow down. Other times they point to something a physiotherapist or doctor needs to look at properly. Knowing the difference helps you act early instead of pushing through pain.

Signs to notice

• Pain that lasts longer than two weeks or keeps returning
• Pain that wakes you up at night or stops you doing daily tasks
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in an arm or leg
• Headaches that are new, severe, or different from your usual pattern
• Digestive symptoms that persist despite changes to diet and stress levels
• Unexplained weight loss, fever, or fatigue alongside physical pain
• An injury that isn't improving after a week of rest and gentle movement

What helps

• Keep a simple symptom diary for a week - note what makes pain better or worse
• Try gentle movement, stretching, and good posture before assuming the worst
• Address obvious stress triggers, since tension headaches and back pain often ease once workload or worry reduces
• Stay hydrated and prioritise sleep, both of which affect how the body copes with pain
• Don't self-diagnose from the internet - it tends to increase anxiety rather than help
• If a specific movement or activity started the pain, rest that area and modify how you move for a few days

When to reach out for help

See a physiotherapist for movement-related pain, muscle strain, joint stiffness, or recovery after an injury - they're often a faster first stop than a GP for musculoskeletal issues. See a doctor if you have chest pain, breathing difficulty, sudden severe headache, numbness on one side of the body, unexplained weight loss, fever with pain, or any symptom that frightens you or doesn't fit a clear pattern. When in doubt, it's always reasonable to get checked - professionals would rather reassure you than have you wait too long.

Getting help in South Africa

Many medical aids and EAP benefits include physiotherapy sessions - check your Cleared Mind member benefits for referral options. Your GP can also refer you to specialists if needed. If stress or anxiety seems to be driving physical symptoms, a Cleared Mind counsellor can help you work through the underlying pressure alongside your medical care. For general mental health support, the SADAG Mental Health Line is available on 011 234 4837.