Stress
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In a sentence
Stress is how we react when we feel under pressure or unable to cope with what is being asked of us.
What it can feel like
- Feeling overwhelmed or on edge
- Finding it hard to switch off or sleep
- Headaches, tension or an upset stomach
- Losing interest in things you usually enjoy
Why it might be happening
Stress can come from work, money, caring for others, health or big changes, and often from several things at once. Some stress is part of life, but long periods of it can affect your physical and mental health.
Things you can try now
- 1Write down what is adding to the pressure
- 2Pick one small thing you can change or let go of
- 3Protect some time for rest each day
- 4Tell someone you trust how things are
How therapy can help
A psychologist can help you understand what is going on, make sense of it in the context of your life, and try approaches with good evidence behind them. These Abantu psychologists work with this:
Not sure who to choose? We'll help
For family and friends
Listen without rushing to fix it. Ask what would help, and let them know you are there.
Supporting a family member
Related listening
- Calm breathing for when anxiety rises · 1 min
- Winding down for sleep · 1 min
If you need help now
Abantu isn't an emergency service. If you or someone else is in danger, call 999. For urgent mental health support, call NHS 111 and choose the mental health option, or call Samaritans free on 116 123.
More urgent helpLetters from Abantu
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