Stress and how to bust it
Feeling stressed is your brain’s way of letting you know you’re under pressure or overwhelmed. While a little bit of it can help you stay motivated and focused, it can be a problem if it lasts too long or is too intense. It can begin to affect your physical and mental health.
Stress can cause anxiety, depression or even post-traumatic stress disorder.
Symptoms of stress
Here are some common symptoms of stress to look out for:
- Feeling irritable or angry
- Feeling overwhelmed
- Feeling anxious, afraid or nervous
- Constant worry / sense of dread
- Racing thoughts / inability to switch off
- Pounding heart or palpitations
- Dry mouth, headaches, aches and pains
- Lack of interest in daily activities
- Changes in your appetite
Stress-busting techniques
So what can you do about it? Here are some techniques to help you:
- Plan some “me time” in your diary a few times a week
- Get active – exercise and time outdoors are great for clearing your thoughts
- Spend time with people who make you feel good
- Focus on what you can control, not the things you can’t
- Keeping a gratitude journal, writing down three things you are grateful for each day
- Access support from health professionals
- If you feel you can’t keep yourself safe or are at risk of self-harm or suicide, call Samaritans on 116 123. Or call 999 in an emergency (or 111 if you need urgent help)