Stress

Some level of stress in life is natural and is even thought to have a positive effect at times, allowing us to develop and grow. However high levels or prolonged stress can feel overwhelming and can have a detrimental effect on physical, emotional and psychological health.

The causes of stress are very personal and varied and what one person may find challenging, another may not. Causes of stress can include bereavement, divorce/separation, moving home, money problems, having a baby, relationship issues, work etc. In some exceptional circumstances of continued high stress or trauma, such as domestic/sexual abuse or threat to life, the outcome can be post-traumatic stress.

Some symptoms of stress might include:

• Sleep disturbance
• Burnout
• Headaches
• Irritability
• Depression/low mood
• Negative Thinking
• Worrying
• Memory loss
• Over or under eating
• Palpitations
• Alcohol/substance misuse
• Feeling panic

If you are struggling with feelings of stress, however large or small, therapy can help you to gain an increased understanding of what your triggers and stressors are, and how they are impacting you. Counselling can help you find relief by giving you the opportunity to work through your feelings, and find active ways to manage and reduce stress in a way that is tailored to you.