Stress affects all of us at one time or another, causing symptoms such as anxiety, headaches, pain and fatigue. At its worst, stress can cause heart attacks and strokes, with many patients reporting feelings of anger and frustration immediately before the attack.
For some, stress affects their ability to engage in their usual daily activities. It really needs to be tackled in order to overcome the horrendous feeling that comes with it.
How to deal with stress
The Skills You Need website provides a number of helpful recommendations to manage stress:
- Avoid caffeine, alcohol and nicotine! These are all stimulants which can enhance the feelings of stress. Instead, try soothing drinks like camomile tea, water and diluted fruit juice.
- Exercise! Whether you go to the gym, walk the dog or take up yoga, exercise helps you to burn off the adrenaline and cortisol caused by stress.
- Sleep! Try a relaxing bath before bed, reading an enjoyable book and get that early night!
- Rest if you need it!
Nikki Yavari
Other things you can try include mindfulness techniques – a type of self-hypnosis, which some people swear by. There are many links on social media, such as Youtube, but you can also find more information on the Be Mindful website.
If these techniques fail you should see your doctor who can refer you for treatment, such as cognitive behavioural therapy or counselling.
You can find out much more about stress awareness on the ISMA website.
Nikki Yavari, medical negligence solicitor
