Don't let stress overwhelm you

If you're stressed, whether by your job or by something more personal, the first step to feeling better is to identify the cause. Experts say the keys to good stress management are building emotional strength, being in control of your situation, having a good social network and adopting a positive outlook.

• Be active -- physical activity can get you in the right state of mind to be able to identify the causes of your stress and find a solution.

Exercise won't make your stress disappear, but it will help reduce some of the emotional intensity you're feeling and enable you to deal with your problems more calmly.

• No matter how difficult your problem may appear to be, there's always a solution. If you remain passive, thinking: 'I can't do anything about my problem,' your stress will get worse. The act of taking control is in itself empowering and a crucial part of finding a solution.
• Connect with people -- a problem shared is a problem halved, as the old saying goes. A good support network of colleagues, friends and family can ease your work troubles and help you see things in a different way.
• Have some 'me time' -- extra hours in the workplace mean people aren't spending enough time doing things they really enjoy. Set aside a couple of nights a week for some quality 'me time'.

By earmarking those two days, it means you won't be tempted to work overtime on those days.

• Challenge yourself -- setting yourself goals and challenges, such as learning a new language or a new sport, helps to build confidence. That in turn will help you deal with stress.

By constantly challenging yourself you're being proactive and taking charge of your life. By continuing to learn, you become more emotionally resilient. It arms you with knowledge and makes you want to do things rather than be passive, such as watching TV all the time.

• Do volunteer work -- people who help others, through activities such as volunteering or community work, become more resilient.

On a more basic level, do someone a favour every day. It can be something as small as helping someone cross the road. Favours cost nothing and you'll feel better. (© Independent News Services)

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