The influenza season is just getting started (it peaks December through February), but if you find yourself contending with aches and pains, weariness, headaches, and trouble sleeping, you may think you've come down with the flu.

But that may not be the case.

It turns out that symptoms of acute and chronic stress can be mistaken for the flu and other infections, making it harder for you to figure out what's going on emotionally and physically — and find solutions.

According to Harvard Medical School, there are many stress symptoms that can be mistaken for physical maladies. Chest pains, stomach aches, and indigestion may knock you off your feet and send you scrambling for over-the-counter solutions or medical treatments that don't address the underlying cause.

And over time, chronic stress can contribute to the development of serious cardiovascular disease or digestive disorders, weaken your immune system, and speed up dementia, arthritis, and other forms of disability and premature aging.

Managing stress with meditation, exercise, a strong posse, a sense of purpose, and a healthy diet is essential for a long, happy, healthy lifespan.

If you suspect your physical symptoms are from stress, ask your doctor for a referral to a psychotherapist, or go online to the American Psychological Association's APA Psychologist Locator (locator.apa.org).

In addition, look into adopting the stress-reducing techniques outlined in my books, "The RealAge Workout" and the "What to Cook When Cookbook." (Yes, diet can help control stress.)