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National Stress Awareness Day (6th November) aims to identify and reduce the stress factors in your life, and reduce the stigma behind it. It is an ideal opportunity to start looking after yourself, and break down the individual stressors in your life.
Stress is our body's way of protecting itself from harm. However, too much stress causes harm to our health and relationships. Stress can cause many different symptoms. It might affect how you feel physically, mentally and also how you behave.
Identifying the causes to our stress - whether it be health problems, stressful work environments, financial stress, or other family issues.
Physical symptoms can include: headaches or dizziness, muscle tension or pain, stomach problems, chest pain or a faster heartbeat and sexual problems.
Mental symptoms can include: difficulty concentrating, struggling to make decision, feeling overwhelmed, constantly worrying and being forgetful.
Behavioural changes can include: being irritable and snappy, sleeping too much or too little, eating too much or too little, avoiding certain places or people and drinking or smoking more.
Some ways to reduce stress can include:
Deep breathing exercises - this is a great way to regain focus and for the mind to calm down, even if just for a few minutes a day.
Regular exercise - by getting the body moving through running, walking, cycling or even yoga, you can lead a stress free lifestyle.
Reduce caffeine intake - a healthier diet can be a huge stress-buster, and caffeine can be a significant culprit for creating anxiety. Limiting caffeine each day can help to reduce the stress put on the body.
Talk about your feelings - talking to friends, family or a therapist can help in coping with the daily stresses of life.
Get enough sleep - a lack of sleep can affect your mood and can lead to more stress in your life. Getting 7-9 hours sleep a night will ensure your mood, energy levels, focus and overall functioning is at its best.
Fall asleep faster and sleep better - Every Mind Matters - NHS (www.nhs.uk)
Practice mindfulness - paying more attention to the present moment, to your own thoughts and feelings, and to the world around you can reduce the stress in you life.
Mindfulness - NHS (www.nhs.uk)
It is important to remember that if you find things getting tough, you do not have to go through it alone. Make an appointment with your GP to discuss how you feel, or visit one of the many organisations out there that can help.
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