Stress

SEE THE SIGNS

Here are some of the common symptoms:

• Irritability
• Racing or obsessive thoughts
• Being forgetful, not concentrating
• Feeling overwhelmed
• Sweating and dizziness
• Headaches or muscle pain
• Bowel or bladder problems
• Dry mouth, shortness of breath
• Fast heartbeat

TREATMENT

There are lots of ways to help yourself, including exercise, meditation or stress management courses. Look at the 'See how you can help yourself section for more ideas".

But if you still find it hard to cope, your GP can offer advice, along with access to talking therapy and medication.

If you have any symptoms described on this page and they are causing you long-term problems, it's a good idea to talk to your GP.

Fiona feels like the world is on her shoulders

Stress makes you feel like you're under too much mental or emotional pressure. It affects us all, but if you're under stress for long periods, it can damage your mental health.

There are many causes, such as money and relationship problems, being unemployed, physical illness or going through a big life event - such as moving to a new house.