During Stress Awareness Month, a consultant clinical psychologist in north Cumbria is offering advice about coping with stress.
Dr Brenda Connolly from North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust, highlights that: “Experiencing stress is a normal part of being human. Everyone feels stressed at certain times, particularly if you are feeling under pressure.
“A healthy amount of stress can help you feel motivated, energised and get things done. However, too much stress, particularly chronic stress can lead to you feeling overwhelmed and become problematic. I would encourage anyone who feels they need to, to seek help, support is on hand if you need it.”
Sadly, stress and poor mental health are one of the biggest public health challenges that we’re facing as a nation. Unfortunately many people still feel there is a stigma attached to talking openly about stress and mental health struggles which can lead to more issues.
Dr Connolly added: “We continue to separate mental health from physical health and vice versa. The reality is they cannot be separate – they are two sides of the same coin. There is no health without mental health and stress can lead to numerous health problems. From physical problems, like heart disease, insomnia, digestive issues, immune system challenges etc to more serious mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression.”
Stress Awareness Month has been held every April since 1992 to raise awareness of the causes and cures for our modern-day stress epidemic. It is the time when we have an opportunity for an open conversation on the impact of stress. Dedicated time to removing the guilt, shame, and stigma around mental health. To talk about stress, and its effects and open up about our mental and emotional state with friends, families, colleagues, and professionals.
The most crucial thing you can do when you are stressed or anxious is to make sure you are continuing to look after yourself. Make time to relax when you need to and learn to say no to requests that are too much for you.
How can you combat stress?
- Talk about stress with friends, family and colleagues.
- Identify and challenge unhelpful thoughts – the way we think about a situation affects the way we feel
- Split large tasks up into smaller more achievable chunks
- Share your coping mechanisms – if something has worked for you why not share it. It might benefit someone you care about and in the meantime it might help you take your focus off your own challenges.
- Be nice to those who are stressed and anxious – we are all undoubtedly going to experience stress and anxiety in our lifetime so treat others going through with compassion and empathy.
- Look after yourself – we all need to think more about self-care. Take time out of your day to relax or do something that you enjoy. Don’t forget to exercise and eat well, even when you feel too stressed.