Stress and Relaxation
It's almost impossible to live without some stress, and most of us wouldn't want to, because it gives life some spice and excitement. But if stress gets out of control, it may harm your health, your relationships, and your enjoyment of life.
Stress is the emotional and physical strain caused by our response to pressure from the outside world. Common stress reactions include tension, irritability, inability to concentrate, and a variety of physical symptoms that include headache and a fast heartbeat.
Relaxation can help you to destress and setting aside time to “recharge your batteries” on a daily basis is essential to maintaining your control on life.
Anything you enjoy doing can count as relaxation, for example:
- Taking a nice bath, perhaps with aromatherapy oil
- Sitting with a magazine and a cup of tea
- Going for a walk
- Going to the cinema with friends
- Exercise, on all physical levels, can help relieve the stresses and strains of daily life
For ideas check our Staying Active section for exercise ideas and Learning section for evening classes. Also check out the headings down the side of the page for links to some great online advice.
If you find that stress is getting out of control, it’s always a good idea to share how you feel. Talk to a friend or family member, talk to your GP or call one of the following helplines.
Helplines
To visit the website that accompanies these helplines, click on the organisation name.
Breathing Space 0800 83 85 87
free, 6pm–2am
If you’re feeling down or depressed, advisers will offer a friendly ear and provide information and advice.
Samaritans 08457 90 90 90
low cost, 24 hrs
Email: jo@samaritans.org
The Samaritans will listen to how you feel and offer advice and support.
Stress Watch Scotland 01563 574 144
Mon–Fri, 10am–6pm
Supports in the recovery of people who suffer from stress, anxiety, phobias, panic attacks and obsessive compulsive disorders. Their website also includes stress buster tips.
Manage stress at your local library
If you feel like relaxing at home you can grab a good book or a DVD from your local library. Or, why not check out books on relaxing and staying healthy?
See the library catalogue for what’s available at your local branch
Some local libraries now have My Health Information Points where in addition to grabbing books and leaflets, you can ask to speak with a health information worker about mangaing stress. See our section on how to Get Support from My Local Library.
