We live in stressful times. No-one is immune from the pressures of daily living whether its financial,
relational, physical, emotional or circumstantial.

When is stress a problem?
Stress is the body’s normal response to a challenge or a threat. Adrenaline is released to prepare the
body for ‘fight or flight’. Some stress is good and can motivate you to do what you need to do. Stress
only becomes a problem when the levels of adrenaline become excessive. If this happens the symptoms
of stress may become severe and instead of being motivated the body feels under pressure and shuts
down.

How can I tell if I’m stressed?
Your body will usually tell you.

• You feel tense, nervous or tired
• You frequently get headaches
• You feel breathless or dizzy
• You feel sick with stomach pains or upset tummy
• You feel anxious or depressed
• You can’t sleep

How do I reduce stress?

It helps to live a BALANCED life.

Believe in yourself
Ask for support
Learn relaxation techniques
Avoid excessive caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine
Never give up, you’ll get there in the end
Create space for doing things you enjoy
Exercise and eat well
Don't bottle things up - get it off your chest!

Counselling can help you cope with stress before it becomes anxiety and part of your lifestyle.
Having someone to listen to you in a non-judgemental way may help you to find a way through your
situation and help you cope. Contact us to speak in confidence to one of our counsellors.