Stress

 

Everybody will experience stress, whether it is caused by work, relationship problems, a sudden change in circumstances, financial issues or a pressing deadline. When stress levels remain too high for too long they may begin to impact on physical health, mental health and relationships.

 

Stress can best be described by the following indicators:

• Feeling angry at the situation and others around you

• Feeling anxious, worried and nervous

• Feeling highly emotional and prone to mood swings

• Wanting to withdraw from social activities

• Feelings of low self esteem and worthlessness

• Lapses in concentration and motivation levels

Stress may also result in physical problems such as:

• Stomach pain/ cramping

• Indigestion or heart burn

• Diarrhoea

• Headaches and migrations

• Backache/ neck ache and other muscle pain

• Interruptions to sleep patterns

• Interruptions to eating patterns

• Increased heart rate and other heart problems

• Hypertension

• Ulcers

Through treatment, many of the stressors can be put into perspective. Learning to use psychological tools and strategies can begin to relieve stress levels which can aid in gaining further insight into one’s stress. A greater awareness of where stress comes from allows the person to recognise how to manage the stress more effectively and therefore a new pattern of relief and relaxation begins to emerge. The difficulty almost always begins with ‘where to start’ and this is where we can help.