Stress

Your body releases stress hormones (cortisol, adrenalin and others) into your blood when you are under pressure and need to remain alert. This can have a positive effect if there is a valid reason for the stress, such as an upcoming deadline, which can make you feel more motivated to improve your performance.

However, the issue comes when you are experiencing high levels of stress for common 'every day' activities, such as socialising, going to work or planning for the future.

Stress can affect every aspect of you, from your body, to your thoughts and feelings. This pressure can change the way you behaviour and react to things, so it's important to be able to recognise the common symptoms of stress.

If left unchecked, stress can contribute to other health issues, such as diabetes and heart disease.

Stress on your body

• Fatigue

• Headaches

• Chest pain

• Muscle pain

• Sleep problems

• Changes in your sex drive

• Stomach issues

Stress on your mood

• Irritability

• Anger

• Restlessness

• Anxiety

• Depression or sadness

• A feeling of being overwhelmed

• Difficulty in concentrating

Stress on your behaviour

• Panicking

• Social withdrawal

• Limited physical activity

• Anger outbursts

• Over or under eating

• Drug or alcohol use

Taking steps to manage your stress can have many health benefits. Here are a few ways you can help manage your stress.

• Meditation and relaxation, even if this is just 20 minutes a day

• Keeping a sense of humour and enjoyment

• Regular and consistent exercise

• Spending time with love ones and friends

• Setting aside time for hobbies

• Having set times to disconnect from technology and social media

Being active is a great way to manage your stress as it pumps up your endorphins and is a natural stress buster. It's also a lot more difficult to feel stressed when your body is exhausted.

Sleep and healthy diet are also key for all mental health issues and stress is no exception.