Top 55 Slang For Stress – Meaning & Usage

Feeling stressed out? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with the top slang for stress. From “freaking out” to “having a meltdown,” our team has compiled a list of the most relatable and hilarious phrases that perfectly capture those moments when stress gets the best of us. Get ready to laugh and maybe even learn a new way to describe your next stress-filled day!

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1. Stressed out

This phrase is commonly used to describe a state of being overwhelmed or anxious due to various factors. It can refer to feeling mentally or emotionally burdened.

For example, “I’m so stressed out with all the deadlines at work.”
Another example, “Final exams have me really stressed out.”
A person might say, “The constant pressure to perform well in school is making me stressed out.”

2. Wound up

This phrase is used to describe a state of feeling tense, anxious, or agitated. It can refer to a heightened state of emotional or mental arousal.

For instance, “I’m all wound up about the upcoming presentation.”
Another example, “The traffic jam had me all wound up.”
A person might say, “The constant noise in the city gets me really wound up.”

3. Under a lot of pressure

This phrase is used to express being burdened with high expectations or demands, often leading to stress or anxiety. It can refer to feeling overwhelmed by responsibilities.

For example, “I’m under a lot of pressure to meet the project deadline.”
Another example, “Athletes are often under a lot of pressure to perform well.”
A person might say, “The pressure to succeed in my career is intense.”

4. Stresses me out

This phrase is used to express that something or someone is causing stress or anxiety. It can refer to situations or people that contribute to feeling overwhelmed or pressured.

For instance, “The constant noise from construction stresses me out.”
Another example, “Dealing with difficult customers at work really stresses me out.”
A person might say, “Being around negative people stresses me out.”

5. Drives me crazy

This phrase is used to express extreme frustration or irritation. It can refer to situations, people, or behaviors that cause significant stress or annoyance.

For example, “The constant interruptions during meetings drive me crazy.”
Another example, “My neighbor’s loud music late at night drives me crazy.”
A person might say, “The never-ending to-do list at home drives me crazy.”

6. Snowed under

When someone is “snowed under,” it means they have an excessive amount of work or tasks to complete, causing them to feel overwhelmed and stressed.

For example, “I can’t go out tonight, I’m snowed under with deadlines.”
A student might say, “I’m snowed under with assignments and exams this week.”
A busy professional might complain, “I’ve been snowed under with meetings and projects lately.”

7. Up to my ears in work

When someone is “up to their ears in work,” it means they are extremely busy and have a lot of work to do. This phrase emphasizes the overwhelming amount of work someone has.

For instance, “I can’t take on any more tasks, I’m up to my ears in work.”
A colleague might say, “I haven’t had a break all day, I’m up to my ears in work.”
A freelancer might complain, “I’ve been up to my ears in client requests this month.”

8. Overworked

When someone is “overworked,” it means they are exhausted and drained from working too much or having an excessive workload.

For example, “I can’t handle any more projects, I’m overworked.”
A coworker might say, “I’ve been feeling really overworked lately, I need a break.”
A parent might express, “Between work and taking care of the kids, I’m completely overworked.”

9. Doing/working overtime

When someone is “doing/working overtime,” it means they are working extra hours beyond their regular work schedule. This can contribute to increased stress and fatigue.

For instance, “I have to do overtime this weekend to meet the deadline.”
A colleague might say, “I’ve been working overtime all week to finish this project.”
An employee might complain, “I’m tired of doing overtime every week, it’s taking a toll on my well-being.”

10. Burnt out

When someone is “burnt out,” it means they are physically and mentally exhausted from excessive stress or work. This term often implies a state of complete depletion and lack of motivation.

For example, “I need a vacation, I’m completely burnt out.”
A friend might say, “You should take a break, you seem really burnt out.”
A student might express, “I can’t study anymore, I’m burnt out from all the exams and assignments.”

11. On the brink

This phrase is used to describe someone who is very close to reaching their limit or breaking point due to stress or pressure.

For example, “After working long hours all week, I’m on the brink of exhaustion.”
A student might say, “With all these exams coming up, I feel like I’m on the brink of a mental breakdown.”
Someone overwhelmed with tasks might exclaim, “I have so much to do, I’m on the brink of a meltdown!”

12. Anxious wreck

This term is used to describe someone who is feeling extremely anxious and overwhelmed, to the point where they may feel like they are falling apart.

For instance, “I have so much going on right now, I feel like an anxious wreck.”
A person experiencing panic attacks might say, “During an episode, I feel like an anxious wreck, unable to control my racing thoughts.”
Someone overwhelmed by work might exclaim, “I have so many deadlines, I’m turning into an anxious wreck!”

13. Nervous wreck

This phrase is used to describe someone who is feeling extremely nervous and stressed, to the point where they may feel like they are falling apart.

For example, “I have a big presentation tomorrow and I’m a nervous wreck.”
A person with social anxiety might say, “Whenever I have to speak in public, I become a nervous wreck.”
Someone overwhelmed by personal problems might exclaim, “With everything going on in my life, I’m turning into a nervous wreck!”

14. Ready to snap

This term is used to describe someone who is on the verge of losing control due to stress or frustration.

For instance, “After dealing with all these problems, I’m ready to snap.”
A person dealing with a difficult situation might say, “I’ve been patient for so long, but now I’m ready to snap.”
Someone overwhelmed by demands might exclaim, “I have so much on my plate, I feel like I’m ready to snap!”

15. Tense as a rubber band

This phrase is used to describe someone who is extremely tense and stressed, like a rubber band that is stretched to its limit.

For example, “After a long day at work, I feel as tense as a rubber band.”
A person experiencing muscle tension due to stress might say, “I’ve been so stressed lately, my body feels as tense as a rubber band.”
Someone overwhelmed by responsibilities might exclaim, “With all these deadlines, I’m as tense as a rubber band!”

16. Stressed to the max

This phrase is used to describe a state of being extremely overwhelmed or under a great deal of pressure.

For example, “I have so many deadlines this week, I’m stressed to the max.”
A person might say, “I can’t handle any more work, I’m already stressed to the max.”
Another might say, “I feel like I’m constantly juggling multiple responsibilities, it’s making me stressed to the max.”

17. On the verge of a meltdown

This expression is used to describe being on the brink of losing control emotionally or mentally.

For instance, “After dealing with so much today, I’m on the verge of a meltdown.”
Someone might say, “I’ve been under so much pressure lately, I feel like I’m always on the verge of a meltdown.”
Another might say, “When everything is piling up and I can’t catch a break, I start feeling on the verge of a meltdown.”

18. Stressed to the limit

This phrase is used to describe being pushed to the maximum limit of stress or pressure.

For example, “With all the responsibilities I have, I feel like I’m constantly stressed to the limit.”
A person might say, “I can’t handle any more work, I’m already stressed to the limit.”
Another might say, “When I have too much on my plate, I start feeling stressed to the limit.”

19. Struggling to keep it together

This phrase is used to describe the struggle of maintaining composure or control in a stressful situation.

For instance, “I have so much going on right now, I’m really struggling to keep it together.”
Someone might say, “When everything feels like it’s falling apart, I find myself struggling to keep it together.”
Another might say, “I’m dealing with so much stress, it’s hard for me to keep it together sometimes.”

20. Overwhelmed

This term is used to describe a state of being completely overcome or inundated with stress or tasks.

For example, “I have so much on my plate right now, I’m feeling overwhelmed.”
A person might say, “When I have too much to do and not enough time, I start feeling overwhelmed.”
Another might say, “The constant demands and pressure make me feel overwhelmed.”

21. Anxious as hell

This phrase is used to describe a high level of anxiety or stress. It emphasizes the intensity of the feeling.

For example, “I have a big presentation tomorrow and I’m anxious as hell.”
A person might say, “I’ve been waiting for the test results all day, I’m anxious as hell.”
Another might say, “The deadline is approaching and I’m anxious as hell about finishing on time.”

22. Stressed to the gills

This phrase means being under a significant amount of stress or pressure. The phrase “to the gills” emphasizes being completely filled or overwhelmed.

For instance, “I have so many deadlines this week, I’m stressed to the gills.”
A person might say, “The workload is piling up and I’m stressed to the gills.”
Another might say, “I have so much going on right now, I’m stressed to the gills.”

23. Struggling

This term is used to describe the act of having a hard time dealing with stress or challenges.

For example, “I’m really struggling with all the demands of work and school.”
A person might say, “I’ve been struggling to find a balance between my personal and professional life.”
Another might say, “I’m struggling to meet all the expectations placed on me.”

24. Stressed to the breaking point

This phrase describes being under extreme stress or pressure to the point where one feels they may not be able to handle it anymore.

For instance, “I’ve been working long hours for weeks, I’m stressed to the breaking point.”
A person might say, “The constant demands are pushing me to the breaking point.”
Another might say, “I’ve had so many responsibilities lately, I feel like I’m stressed to the breaking point.”

25. Overloaded

This term is used to describe feeling overwhelmed or burdened with a heavy load of stress or responsibilities.

For example, “I have so much on my plate right now, I feel completely overloaded.”
A person might say, “The pressure is mounting and I’m starting to feel overloaded.”
Another might say, “I’ve been juggling multiple projects and I’m starting to feel overloaded.”

26. Stressed to the core

This phrase indicates being stressed to the maximum extent.

For example, “I have so much work to do, I’m stressed to the core.”
A student might say, “With exams coming up, I’m stressed to the core.”
Someone overwhelmed with responsibilities might exclaim, “I’m stressed to the core, I don’t know how I’ll manage everything!”

27. On the brink of a breakdown

This phrase describes being on the verge of losing control due to stress.

For instance, “After working long hours every day, I’m on the brink of a breakdown.”
A person overwhelmed with personal issues might say, “With everything going on in my life, I feel like I’m on the brink of a breakdown.”
Someone experiencing high levels of stress might express, “I can’t handle any more pressure, I’m on the brink of a breakdown!”

28. On the edge of a nervous breakdown

This phrase indicates being on the verge of a nervous breakdown due to stress.

For example, “With all the deadlines approaching, I’m on the edge of a nervous breakdown.”
A person dealing with a traumatic event might say, “The constant anxiety has me on the edge of a nervous breakdown.”
Someone overwhelmed with responsibilities might express, “I feel like I’m on the edge of a nervous breakdown, I can’t handle any more pressure!”

29. Stressed to the point of exhaustion

This phrase describes being stressed to the extent of complete exhaustion.

For instance, “I’ve been working non-stop for days, I’m stressed to the point of exhaustion.”
A person juggling multiple responsibilities might say, “Between work and family, I’m stressed to the point of exhaustion.”
Someone overwhelmed with deadlines might express, “The constant pressure has me stressed to the point of exhaustion!”

30. On the verge of losing it

This phrase indicates being on the verge of losing composure or control due to stress.

For example, “After dealing with one problem after another, I’m on the verge of losing it.”
A person facing multiple challenges might say, “I can’t handle any more stress, I’m on the verge of losing it.”
Someone overwhelmed with frustration might express, “The constant pressure has me on the verge of losing it!”

31. Stressed to the hilt

This phrase emphasizes the intensity of stress that someone is experiencing.

For example, “I have so many deadlines to meet, I’m stressed to the hilt.”
A student might say, “I’m stressed to the hilt with all these exams.”
Someone overwhelmed with work might exclaim, “I can’t handle all these projects, I’m stressed to the hilt!”

32. Under the pump

This phrase is used to describe someone who is facing a lot of pressure or stress.

For instance, “I have so much work to do, I’m really under the pump.”
A person dealing with a demanding boss might say, “I’m constantly under the pump at work.”
Someone with tight deadlines might express, “I feel like I’m always under the pump to finish everything on time.”

33. Burned out

When someone is burned out, they are physically and mentally exhausted due to prolonged stress or overwork.

For example, “I’ve been working nonstop for weeks, I’m completely burned out.”
A person experiencing burnout might say, “I can’t handle any more stress, I’m totally burned out.”
Someone feeling overwhelmed might express, “I need a break, I’m burned out from all the pressure.”

34. On pins and needles

This phrase describes a state of extreme nervousness or anxiety.

For instance, “I’m waiting for the test results, I’ve been on pins and needles.”
A person waiting for important news might say, “I’ve been on pins and needles all day.”
Someone anticipating a difficult conversation might express, “I’m on pins and needles about talking to my boss.”

35. Stressed out of my mind

This phrase emphasizes the level of stress someone is experiencing, suggesting they are overwhelmed and unable to cope.

For example, “I have so much going on right now, I’m stressed out of my mind.”
A person dealing with multiple challenges might say, “I can’t handle any more stress, I’m stressed out of my mind.”
Someone feeling overwhelmed might express, “I’m so stressed out of my mind, I don’t know how to relax anymore.”

36. Stressed beyond belief

This phrase is used to describe a level of stress that is beyond what is considered normal or manageable. It signifies being completely overwhelmed and unable to cope with the pressure.

For example, “I have so much work to do, I’m stressed beyond belief.”
A student might say, “With all the exams and assignments, I’m feeling stressed beyond belief.”
Someone might express their stress by saying, “The deadlines are piling up and I’m stressed beyond belief.”

37. Stressed to the point of no return

This phrase indicates a level of stress that has reached a breaking point. It implies that the person is unable to handle any more stress and is on the verge of completely breaking down.

For instance, “I have so many responsibilities right now, I’m stressed to the point of no return.”
A person might say, “I’ve been working nonstop and I’m stressed to the point of no return.”
Someone might express their feelings by saying, “Everything is going wrong and I’m stressed to the point of no return.”

38. On the edge of insanity

This phrase suggests being in a state of extreme stress where one feels like they are losing their grip on reality. It implies that the person is on the verge of becoming mentally unstable due to the overwhelming stress.

For example, “The constant pressure at work has me on the edge of insanity.”
A person might say, “I’ve been dealing with so many problems lately, I feel like I’m on the edge of insanity.”
Someone might express their stress by saying, “The never-ending demands are pushing me to the edge of insanity.”

39. Under pressure

This phrase is commonly used to describe the feeling of being stressed or under stress. It suggests that the person is facing a lot of demands or expectations, causing them to feel overwhelmed and tense.

For instance, “I have a big presentation tomorrow and I’m really under pressure.”
A student might say, “With all the exams coming up, I’m constantly under pressure.”
Someone might express their stress by saying, “The deadlines are approaching and I’m under pressure to finish everything.”

40. On the verge

This phrase indicates being very close to reaching a breaking point or a state of extreme stress. It implies that the person is on the edge of losing control or breaking down due to the overwhelming stress.

For example, “I’ve been dealing with so much lately, I’m on the verge of breaking.”
A person might say, “The constant pressure is pushing me to the verge of a breakdown.”
Someone might express their stress by saying, “I feel like I’m on the verge of losing it with all the deadlines and responsibilities.”

41. Tense as hell

This phrase is used to describe a state of extreme stress or anxiety.

For example, “I have so much work to do, I’m tense as hell.”
Another example, “The pressure of the deadline has me feeling tense as hell.”
A person might say, “I can’t relax, I’m tense as hell right now.”

42. Pulling my hair out

This expression is used to convey a sense of extreme frustration or being overwhelmed by stress.

For instance, “I’ve been dealing with technical issues all day, I feel like I’m pulling my hair out.”
Another example, “The constant demands from my boss have me pulling my hair out.”
A person might exclaim, “I can’t handle this anymore, I’m pulling my hair out!”

43. Going crazy

This phrase is used to express a state of extreme mental stress or feeling overwhelmed to the point of losing control.

For example, “I have so much on my plate, I feel like I’m going crazy.”
Another example, “The constant noise and chaos in my life have me feeling like I’m going crazy.”
A person might say, “The stress is driving me insane, I feel like I’m going crazy!”

44. Stressed to the nth degree

This expression is used to emphasize that someone is feeling an extreme level of stress.

For instance, “With all the deadlines and responsibilities, I’m stressed to the nth degree.”
Another example, “The constant pressure and expectations have me feeling stressed to the nth degree.”
A person might exclaim, “I can’t handle any more stress, I’m stressed to the nth degree!”

45. Stressed to the point of breaking

This phrase is used to convey a state of extreme stress where someone feels they are reaching their breaking point.

For example, “I have so much going on, I’m stressed to the point of breaking.”
Another example, “The constant demands and lack of support have me feeling stressed to the point of breaking.”
A person might say, “I can’t take it anymore, I’m stressed to the point of breaking!”

46. Stressed to the point of tears

This phrase describes a level of stress that is so intense it brings the person to tears. It signifies a state of being emotionally and mentally overwhelmed.

For example, “After working long hours for weeks, she was stressed to the point of tears.”
A student might say, “With all the exams and assignments, I’m stressed to the point of tears.”
Someone dealing with a difficult situation might express, “The pressure is getting to me. I feel stressed to the point of tears.”

47. Stressed to the point of collapse

This phrase expresses extreme stress that has pushed a person to physical and mental exhaustion. It implies a state of being completely overwhelmed and on the verge of breaking down.

For instance, “After managing multiple projects and deadlines, he was stressed to the point of collapse.”
A caregiver might say, “Taking care of my sick parent has left me stressed to the point of collapse.”
A person juggling multiple responsibilities might admit, “I’m stretched thin and stressed to the point of collapse.”

48. Stressed to the point of madness

This phrase conveys a level of stress that has pushed someone to the brink of losing their sanity. It suggests a state of extreme mental and emotional distress.

For example, “The constant pressure at work has left her stressed to the point of madness.”
A student overwhelmed with assignments might say, “I have so much to do, I feel stressed to the point of madness.”
Someone dealing with a difficult situation might express, “I can’t handle it anymore. I’m stressed to the point of madness.”

49. Stressed to the point of despair

This phrase describes a level of stress that has caused someone to feel completely hopeless and defeated. It suggests a state of deep emotional and mental distress.

For instance, “After facing one setback after another, he was stressed to the point of despair.”
A person dealing with financial struggles might say, “I can’t see a way out of this. I’m stressed to the point of despair.”
Someone overwhelmed with responsibilities might admit, “I feel like I’m drowning. I’m stressed to the point of despair.”

50. Stressed to the point of insanity

This phrase indicates a level of stress that has driven someone to the point of losing their sanity. It implies a state of extreme mental and emotional turmoil.

For example, “The constant pressure and lack of sleep have left her stressed to the point of insanity.”
A person dealing with a traumatic event might say, “I can’t escape the nightmares. I’m stressed to the point of insanity.”
Someone overwhelmed with work might express, “I feel like I’m going crazy. I’m stressed to the point of insanity.”

51. Stressed to the point of breakdown

This phrase is used to describe a state of extreme stress where a person feels completely overwhelmed and unable to cope with their current situation.

For example, “I have so much work to do, I’m stressed to the point of breakdown.”
A student might say, “With exams coming up, I’m feeling stressed to the point of breakdown.”
Someone experiencing a lot of pressure at work might exclaim, “I can’t handle all these deadlines, I’m stressed to the point of breakdown!”

52. Stressed to the point of meltdown

This phrase is used to describe a state of extreme stress where a person feels like they are about to have an emotional or mental breakdown.

For instance, “I’ve been dealing with so much lately, I’m stressed to the point of meltdown.”
A parent might say, “With the kids constantly demanding attention, I’m feeling stressed to the point of meltdown.”
Someone overwhelmed with responsibilities might express, “I can’t handle any more tasks, I’m stressed to the point of meltdown!”

53. Stressed to the point of implosion

This phrase is used to describe a state of extreme stress where a person feels like they are about to explode or implode due to the pressure they are under.

For example, “The constant demands at work have me stressed to the point of implosion.”
A student overwhelmed with assignments might say, “I have so much to do, I’m stressed to the point of implosion.”
Someone dealing with a difficult relationship might express, “The constant arguments have me stressed to the point of implosion!”

54. Stressed to the point of explosion

This phrase is used to describe a state of extreme stress where a person feels like they are about to lose control of their emotions or actions due to the overwhelming pressure they are experiencing.

For instance, “I can’t handle any more stress, I’m stressed to the point of explosion.”
A worker with a heavy workload might say, “The deadlines are piling up, I’m stressed to the point of explosion.”
Someone dealing with personal issues might express, “Everything is falling apart, I’m stressed to the point of explosion!”

55. Stressed to the point of self-destruction

This phrase is used to describe a state of extreme stress where a person feels like they are on the verge of collapsing physically, mentally, or emotionally due to the overwhelming stress they are experiencing.

For example, “I have so much going on, I’m stressed to the point of self-destruction.”
A person dealing with multiple responsibilities might say, “I can’t keep up with everything, I’m stressed to the point of self-destruction.”
Someone going through a difficult time might express, “I feel like I’m falling apart, I’m stressed to the point of self-destruction!”