Stress-down Day is a Lifeline-sponsored, timely reminder, for all of us to take it easier on ourselves and our families.

Stress-down Day, a Lifeline-sponsored reminder for all of us to take it easier on ourselves and our families, was held late last month.

Lifeline put the focus on stress in work and family life and this day is aimed to give people a set of basic self-help tools to get through stressful times. Thanks to Lifeline, we can give you this information on stress and how to deal with it.

What is stress?

Stress is our body’s way of dealing with an increase in demand.

When we experience a high level of demand due to situations occurring around us (life, work or anything really), it can trigger an increase in energy, alertness and strength.

In some cases this is a healthy reaction, as it helps us to cope with a situation. But, it can also be harmful, especially when the stress is significant or prolonged.

Emotional stress or stress from fatigue and over work can be detrimental to our physical and mental wellbeing.

What happens to people who are stressed?

Stress can affect both your body and your mind. Physical manifestations of stress can include headaches, aches and pains and feelings of exhaustion. But not only can it make us physically sick, stress can result in significant reduction in motivation and mental wellbeing. Stress can also lead to serious mental health issues, especially if it is prolonged.

People who are stressed can be irritable, angry and depressed, they can feel lost and overwhelmed and in some cases can be feel suicidal.

Hints that someone you know might be feeling stressed

We all experience stress, so it would be unrealistic to expect a life totally free from stress. However, we can all do a lot to help the people close to us, some things to look for that may indicate that someone is feeling stressed:

• Unusual sleeping patterns – feeling tired all the time or not getting enough sleep.
• Alcohol and substance abuse – an increase in alcohol intake or dependence - on alcohol or drugs to ‘get by’.
• Loss of interest in activities that were previously of interest e.g. hobbies, socialising and special interests.
• Experiencing high levels of panic and a sense of not coping.
• Feeling down or depressed much of the time.
• Uncharacteristic mood swings or changes in personality.
• Experiencing any behaviour or feelings that may be putting a person at risk of harm.
• Thoughts of suicide, death or ending the pain.

Some handy simple tips for dealing with stress:

• Take time to look after yourself physically and emotionally.
• Allocate time for things you enjoy or that make you happy.
• Don’t place unnecessary pressure or expectations on yourself.
• Make time for friends and family amid other priorities– strong connections with loved ones are good for mental health.
• Make time for discussion about emotions within your family – make mental health a discussion point without judgment or stigma attached to it.
• Limit alcohol intake and use of other substances.
• If you feel your stress levels peaking take a few minutes of time out in a private place to assess the situation.
• Schedule both personal time for relaxation, and social time for getting involved in group activities.

Places to go for help

Studies show that if people seek out help, some can significantly alleviate issues of distress and negative mental health experiences:

• Talk to a trusted family member or friend, or a professional such as a GP or psychologist.
• Connect with a helpline, such as Lifeline’s 24 hour telephone counselling service – 13 11 14.
• Utilise online self help resources. A number of organisations offer information and resources about mental health. Find out more or download a self help tool kit at www.lifeline.org.au

Simple tips for dealing with financial stress

• Be brave, look at your situation realistically and understand your incomings and outgoings.
• Assess your budget.
• Seek support from people your trust and who are reputable, getting a second opinion is also a good idea.
• There are many ways you can negotiate with credit companies to re-finance loans and repayments.
• Break down your financial picture into small pieces and face them one at a time.
• Where possible, work with your family or significant others to problem solve. Forgo luxuries and pat yourself on the back when you do well.

Employee rights regarding psychological injury

You can find general information about psychological injury and workers’ rights through external sources such as the state WorkCover authorities or government industrial relations departments.

WorkCover NSW

WorkCover SA

WorkSafe Victoria

WorkCover Qld

WorkCover Tasmania

WorkSafe ACT

WorkCover WA

Don’t forget: Lifeline’s 24-hour telephone counselling service is on 13 11 14.