I feel stressed. What can I do about it?

Here are some pointers you might find useful:

• Talk to someone you trust, at work or outside work. Speak to your union rep, if there is one. Talking is not a sign of weakness, but the first step in regaining control over your working life.
• Think about where and when you experience the most stress: is it at home or at work? Are you trying to meet impossible demands? Where do they come from? Listen to your feelings.
• Look for warning signs. Each of us has our own stress response, or 'fingerprint'. It may be a headache, diarrhoea, losing sleep or loss of concentration. Watch out for increases in tension, irritability and moodiness. These changes may be more obvious to other people than to you.
• Visit your GP. Tell your GP about your work and your health symptoms. You may need time off work to decide what you are going to do.
• If your GP surgery is linked to a community Occupational Health project, contact one of their advisers. (find out more in our section on community occupational help).
• Use a helpline. Employers, unions and voluntary agencies offer confidential advice on tackling stress.
• Look after yourself. Take regular exercise, eat healthily and take proper breaks, such as at least half an hour at lunchtime. Avoid excessive caffeine. Try a creative activity, such as learning a musical instrument, or a new sport.
• Avoid 'false friends', particularly increased drinking, smoking or drugs.