Coping with Everyday Stress

Maintaining a healthy diet and getting regular exercise

This can be quite hard to do when you are very busy and stressed. Taking time to sit down and have a proper meal or get some exercise may feel trivial compared to the pressures you are under. However making time to ensure you eat properly and get a little exercise in where possible will make you feel less tired, stressed and worn down. This will give you the energy you need to keep going when things get draining and stressful. If you are finding it hard to get into a routine of eating well and exercising try to create smaller goals to ensure you are meeting your targets and gradually increase them as you go along. Even just going out for a walk in the fresh air can have positive health benefits.

Talking to someone

Often it can help to talk to someone else. Not necessarily to get specific advice or help but just to blow off some steam. It can be good to talk to a friend or relative so you can let them know how you are feeling. However, sometimes it might feel better to talk to someone who doesn't know you or the person you care for. If you feel you are struggling to cope then you don't need to keep it to yourself. The Samaritans offer a helpline with a friendly and confidential ear at the other end of the phone. The free helpline is open 24 hours a day and can be reached on 116 123.

Take 10 Minutes a Day

Even if you are very busy try to find ten minutes of time when you are likely to be uninterrupted and just focus on spending that time on yourself. This may involve reading a few pages of your favourite book, going out for a quick walk or just putting your feet up with a cup of tea. Try to find activities which allow you to relax and rest your mind so that you can unwind a little. 

See Moodcafe's Well-being and Lifestyle section for further information and suggestions