We all experience stress to varying levels in life and it can quite considerably affect our health and well-being without always realising. We can also become so used to living with it that we don’t recognise it as much as we should! Here are some ways to better recognise it and then manage it so as to better manage your mental health and well-being:
Stress shows up in all of us differently and if you are someone that lives with high levels of stress you have probably learnt to deal well with it but this isn’t always healthy.
Here are some tips:
Recognise your symptoms – it’s different for us all, the symptoms can be emotional and/or physical, so things like, moodiness, irritability, loneliness, fatigue, anxiety, panic, but then can show up as more physical with headaches, intestinal issues, poor sleep and much more! Learn to recognise what’s changed for you if your stress is increasing.
Determine your control – think about everything that you are dealing with right now, a good way is to list all of your stressors out, it could be finances, relationships, work – understanding what is within your control and try to let go of the things that aren’t as that can cause even more stress.
Seek support from others where you can – reach out, self-refer for well-being or counselling support, or speak to a trusted friend, family member or colleague. Know that you are not alone in this. A problem shared really is a problem halved.
Engage in some stress-management activities – things like eating well, exercise, getting out in nature, time management, prioritise your sleep, teach yourself meditation or calming practices, practice breathing techniques, engaging in a new hobby, doing things that bring you joy, talk with a professional.
Admit when you need help – vulnerability is a real strength and not a weakness. Admitting when you aren’t coping is an amazing thing to do and going to speak out and find help is an incredibly strong thing to do.
If you are in need of support, we at Burton and District Mind are here for you. Please reach out to us today, and we will help you begin your journey towards better mental health.
https://www.burtonmind.co.uk/