Dealing with stress

Life tends to throw things at us when we least expect it – and the world just keeps on turning. We’re still expected to get up and go to work and carry on with normal life. So what are we meant to do when it all just gets too much?

Here are some practical tips to help you manage stress.

Balance work and homelife

Lots of companies are now embracing a new way of working since the pandemic. If you have a supportive boss, perhaps you could find out if there is a way you could work from home some of the week or change the hours you work if you are finding things too much.

Switch off

Do you have a hobby you really enjoy such as golf, drawing or even knitting but find you’re too busy to do it? Now is definitely the time to get back into it – the best thing about doing something you love is that it usually takes concentration, which in turn really helps you to switch off and clear your mind, even if it’s only for a couple of hours.

Be mindful

Mindfulness is a word that is thrown around a lot these days, however, there really are a lot of benefits. If you’re not into Yoga or meditation, maybe try going for a walk outdoors – you’ll be surprised at how much exercise and being out in nature helps your state of mind.

Try something new!

It’s sometimes said that a change is as good as a rest. Always fancied ballroom dancing or Jujitsu? Perhaps see if there is a local class. Or sometimes booking time off work for a holiday or a few day trips is helpful to gain perspective and space from whatever is happening in your life right now.

You’re not alone, talking helps

It really does help to share. Sometimes just talking through what you’re going through with someone can help you feel like a weight has been lifted, and if you really feel like you are struggling help is always just around the corner, whether that’s support from work, your Doctor, the Samaritans or a friend.