Stress: A state of worry or mental tension caused by a difficult situation. It’s a natural response that prompts us to address issues and challenges in our lives.
Stress affects us all at various points in our lives and can impact on our physical, mental and emotional health and wellbeing.
Effects of stress
We all experience stress to some degree and in some situations, it can be useful, for example, in interviews and exams. However, constant stress can cause many mental and physical problems.
There are varying causes of stress – some we can do something about; others we have little control over such as illness, injury, life trauma, bereavement and global events.
Lots of micro-stresses during the day can also add up to make us feel more stressed in general.
Whilst we can all feel stressed at times, it's important to distinguish a period of acute stress from chronic, ongoing stress. Constant and persistent stress can cause burnout. If you think you are suffering from chronic stress it's important to speak to someone such as a GP or healthcare professional.
Listen to Dr Hannah Dakin's podcast on how managing stress effectively
Breathing exercises
Are a quick and easy way to manage stress that you can do almost anywhere (try slowly breathing in for 3, holding your breath for 4 and breathing out for 5)
Exercise/movement
Helps to reduce adrenalin and cortisol levels; running or brisk walking is a great way to get in some exercise
Nutrition
Try reducing your intake of caffeine, alcohol, carbonated drinks, sugar and ultra-processed food. This can improve sleep, digestion and mental function, helping to reduce stress levels.
Journaling
Getting your thoughts out into the world can make things clearer and give you a greater sense of control. Ask yourself questions - 'what is the most important thing I can do today to feel joyful/grateful?' This will help you to see the positive things in your life
Give someone a hug
Whether a human or pet, hugging reduces cortisol and improves immune function.
Mindfulness, mediation and yoga
Help us to switch our brains off and completely focus on what we’re doing at the time (you can find lots of free examples online).
Find a hobby you enjoy
Hobbies provide an opportunity to switch off doing something that makes you happy, look for a local class you can join, be it upholstery, cookery, art class, pickleball or going for a walk or a swim
Spend time in nature
Take a walk in the park, on the beach, in the country or take part in an outdoor activity
Spend time with family and friends
Spending time with people you know and love helps to reduce stress.
