Lifeline South Coast

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Stress

Everyone will experience some form of stress within their lifetime. People respond differently to stressful situations and not everyone will experience the same level of stress in the same situation.
Home » Information and Support » Stress

What are the signs of stress?

When faced with a challenging situation or stressful event our bodies release stress hormones. These create physical changes in the body, which help us cope with the immediate situation. However, if the stress is ongoing and the physical changes do not subside, we may feel overwhelmed and unable to cope.

Knowing yourself and how you respond to different situations can help you learn what works for you in terms of managing stress.

There are some signs to look out for which indicate our stress levels are negatively affecting our mental health and wellbeing:

  • Feeling overwhelmed and unable to cope
  • Feeling ‘on edge’ or unable to stop worrying
  • Changes in sleep patterns, fatigue and exhaustion
  • Changes in appetite
  • Physical reactions such as headaches, muscle tension, upset stomach,
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Changes in mood, irritability, anger
  • Withdrawal from friends and family
  • Reliance on alcohol or other substances to cope
  • Thoughts of self-harm or suicide.

Here are some practical strategies for managing stress when feeling overwhelmed and finding it difficult to cope:

  • Identify the cause of your stress and review your current coping strategies
  • Talk to a someone you trust (e.g. friend, family member, religious or community leader, or GP)
  • Remind yourself of your skills and strengths, achievements and effort made during this difficult time
  • Make a positive plan on how to address the situation
  • Eat nutritious foods, get enough sleep, and avoid alcohol and other drugs
  • Exercise – helps release built up tension in your body and releases ‘happy’ hormones which increase feelings of wellbeing
  • Find time for activities you enjoy
  • Access local supports services (GP, counselling services).

By seeking support, it is possible to manage stress levels and feel more equipped to cope.

  • Attend your GP for a physical health check-up and to be referred to local supports
  • Mensline Australia – 1300 789 978
  • Kids Helpline – 1800 55 1800

Resources

Overwhelmed and life pressures – Toolkit

For Crisis Support contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 (24/7) or via text (12pm – 6am AEDT) on 0477 13 11 14

For 24-hour telephone crisis support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14

If life is in danger, call 000


Lifeline South Coast would like to acknowledge the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as traditional custodians of the lands where we live, learn and work. We pay respect to Elders past, present and emerging, and value the rich history, culture and ongoing connection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to country.

Lifeline South Coast is committed to embracing diversity and eliminating all forms of discrimination. We welcome all people irrespective of ethnicity, faith, sexual orientation and gender identity.

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Lifeline South Coast would like to acknowledge the lives that have been lost to suicide. We are committed to supporting those with a lived experience of suicide and aim to reduce the stigma around seeking help for poor mental health and suicidal crisis.
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