Stress Management
Managing stress
About stress
Experts say that short periods of stress in our daily lives are actually good for us.
Continual stress, however, can cause health problems, which may not always appear to be stress related and can not only affect you, but also those closest to you, not least the one you're caring for.
As a carer you are in a situation that can be a constant cause of stress – there are many additional responsibilities and frustrations for you to cope with, so feelings of anger and hopelessness are not uncommon.
You should try to be aware of and identify any symptoms of stress you may experience. It may be unusual behaviour such as overreacting to situations, a short temper, shouting at people or a constant feeling of being unable to cope.
Lack of appetite, poor sleeping patterns and headaches are other typical reactions to stress.
For carers in particular, stress is usually mental or emotional rather than physical and the effect is that the body is constantly 'keyed up', sometimes without any physical activity as a release.
Dealing with stress
No matter how well you deal with your caring role there will inevitably come a time when you experience higher than normal levels of stress.
To enable you to continue your caring role effectively – and to ensure your own health does not suffer – it is important to try and deal with your stress.Possible ways of doing this are;
- Using friends and family for discussion and support
- Using the carers' message boards on internet sites to share frustration
- Taking through situation with appropriate professionals face-to-face or by telephone
- Seeking help and advice from GPs, pharmacists and other health professionals you may know
- Join a self help/advocacy support group
