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Feeling stressed?

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Feeling stressed?

While most of us can manage stress levels fairly well in everyday life, the unprecedented situation we’re facing means many people are feeling under huge strain at the moment.

If you’re feeling this way, you’re not alone. Lots of people are struggling to cope with the pressures of family life in lockdown, worrying about job security and money, and the ever-present threat of the virus.

We’ve outlined some simple steps you can do at home to minimise and manage your stress levels to help you feel better and more able to cope. And if you’re still feeling overwhelmed and can’t see a way forward, there is support available to help you.

Identifying stress

Signs of stress include being unable to sleep, feeling tearful, overwhelmed and unable to cope, and drinking alcohol more often. If you recognise one or more of these symptoms and are finding that stress levels are seriously affecting your life, it’s time to act.

Try our tips below to try and manage the situation.

  1. Be more active - Being physically active won’t make stress disappear but it can make it feel less intense, as exercise releases endorphins to fight stress and lift your mood. Check out our keep active guide for lots of top tips and ideas.
  2. Take control – Identify one thing you want to achieve each day. Start small and build up.
  3. Connect with people – Hearing a voice or seeing a face (even if it’s online) will help you feel more connected.
  4. Give yourself ‘me’ time – It’s important to make time for yourself, especially if you’ve been cooped up at home with young children 24/7. Read, have a bath, listen to your favourite music or simply ask your family to give you some space.
  5. Challenge yourself – Set goals and learn something new. Discover lots of new facts and skills on the Southampton Museums and Gallery learning YouTube channel. Or try a free online course available through the National Careers Service.
  6. Avoid unhealthy habits – Minimise alcohol, smoking and caffeine and try to eat a healthy, balanced diet. If you’re having trouble sleeping, try listening to a meditation app which can help you feel calm and in control.
  7. Help other people – It helps you too! Find out about local volunteering opportunities through Southampton Voluntary Services.
  8. Choose to be positive – Take time to think about the good things in your life and each day, sit and consider what went well and what you're thankful for.

Help and support available

There’s lots of support and information available online to help improve your mental wellbeing. The MIND and NHS websites both have lots of useful advice on how to deal with stress. If you’re worried about money and debt you can talk to our Welfare Rights and Money Advice team for free and confidential support.

The Samaritans provide emotional support at all times, and if stress is manifesting itself in domestic violence you can call the 24-hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline on freephone 0808 2000 247

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