Treating stress
Some people are often unwilling to ask for help if they feel stressed.
They may be embarrassed or think that they should be able to deal with stress on their own.
However, if you are stressed, it is important to speak to someone about how you feel, particularly if it is affecting your daily life.
Speak to your GP if you are stressed and under too much pressure. Speaking to someone about your feelings may help you recognise what is causing your stress, which is a positive step.
Your GP may suggest that you try some self-help techniques, such as exercise, or they may recommend other treatments, such as a talking therapy.
Read more about self-help techniques for stress.
Your treatment may depend on:
- the cause of your stress
- your symptoms
- whether you have been diagnosed with any other conditions
If your stress is causing serious health problems, such as depression, anxiety or high blood pressure, you may need medication or further tests.
Counselling
Counselling involves talking to someone about your problems, such as what causes you to feel stressed.
A counsellor will encourage you to discuss your feelings and they can help you find solutions to your problems. They can also help you learn coping techniques.
See counselling for more information.
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
CBT starts with the idea that your problems are often created by your own mindset. It is not the situation itself that is making you unhappy, but how you think about it and react to it.
CBT aims to change the way that you think about a situation, which in turn should change your behaviour.
Anger management
Stress can cause you to feel angry. Anger management is a form of counselling that helps you cope with anger and encourages you to deal with in a healthy way. It includes:
- recognising when you get angry
- taking time to cool down
- reducing your general stress levels in life
For more information, see Anger management.
Support groups
Stress management groups and classes may be run in surgeries or community centres near you. These classes help people identify the cause of their stress and develop effective coping techniques.
If you're interested in attending one of these groups, ask your GP or mental health worker for more information.
You can search our directory to find stress support groups in your area.
Medication
Your GP may recommend medication if your stress is causing other health problems such as depression and anxiety. Medication can offer relief in the short term but they are not a cure for stress.
There are many steps you can take to better manage future episodes of stress and make yourself less vulnerable to stress. Find out more about managing stress and coping techniques for stress.
