What is Stress?

Stress is how we react when we feel under pressure or threatened. It usually happens when we are in a situation that we don't feel we can manage or control. A small amount of stress can help us to complete tasks and feel more energised. Stress can become a problem when it lasts for a long time or is very intense.
Stress can affect our emotions, our body and how we behave, in lots of different ways.

How stress can make you feel     
     • Irritable, impatient, or overwhelmed
     • Worried or tense
     • Like your thoughts are racing and you can't switch off
     • Like you've lost your sense of humour
     •Difficulty sleeping
     • unable to concentrate
     • Fatigue
     • Muscle aches and headaches

You might feel stressed because of one big event or situation in your life but it can also be a build-up of lots of smaller things.
You may experience stress if you:
     • Feel under lots of pressure
     • Face big changes in your life
     • Are worried about something
     • Don't have much or any control over the outcome of a situation
     • Have responsibilities that you find overwhelming
     • The amount of support you have from other people

Being prepared for times when life can get stressful can make it easier to get through them and being able to manage your wellbeing can help you recover after a stressful event. Here are some tips to help get through stressful situations.
     • Be kind to yourself.
     • Try to take breaks in your day for things you enjoy.
     • Try to find time to relax even if it is a short break.
     • Spend time in nature. You could try going for a walk in a green space, taking care of indoor plants, or spending time with animals.
     • Self-care- Getting enough sleep, staying physically active and eating well can make stress easier to manage.
     • Build your support network. Join a support group.
     • Try and work out what triggers your stress. Even if you can't avoid these situations, being prepared can help. 

Being aware of what you can and cannot change could help you work out the best way to deal with stress.