Manage stress constructively

A little bit of stress can be quite constructive – it keeps you on your toes, gives you a wee shot of adrenaline that keeps you moving and active.

However, stress in large doses is damaging on your whole being – it ages you, disrupts your immune system, your sleep, your blood pressure, your relationships and your outlook.

If you find yourself feeling ‘stressed out’ on a regular basis, seek solutions, before it takes hold and becomes a way of life.

Firstly, assess and discuss your source of stress. Short-term stress happens to nearly everyone – a tight deadline at work, a family member in crisis, an illness or a financial problem. If yours is a short-term problem, make a plan to get through it. If you are prepared and have a clear course of action, it will reduce your stress.

Never be afraid or too proud to discuss a problem with a trusted friend. Others who have a little more perspective can often offer excellent solutions, or help you see the problem in a new light, or point out areas in which you may be over-reacting.

Take things one step at a time and you will feel more in control and thus reduce your stress.

Take good care of yourself

If you know you are under pressure, be vigilant about looking after yourself – set a regular bed time and stick to it, eat plenty of healthy food, reduce your alcohol and caffeine intake and make sure you exercise regularly.

Take a break

If you find yourself feeling unreasonably tired, angry, upset or stressed, stop what you are doing. Go and do something that makes you feel happy and hopeful for a little while, and try to spend some time with someone who encourages you. If you feel time pressured, make it a half hour break – even a short change of scenery can help you manage your feelings better.

Ask for help

If you have felt significantly sad or stressed for more than a fortnight, seek help. Your GP is an excellent place to start – they will be able to suggest strategies or agencies which can help. Stress over time can become depression, which has far-reaching effects. Nip it in the bud.