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Mental Health

Stress

Stress is the feeling of being overwhelmed either emotionally or mentally. Feeling under pressure is normal, with many of us dealing with this everyday. However when these feelings become overwhelming and you have trouble difficulty dealing with pressure, stress often occurs. Everybody is different, and these trigger points vary between individuals.

There are several ways of managing and dealing with stress, but first it is important to identify the triggers for your stress so that they can be avoided in the future.  Exercise, relaxation and time management can all help to reduce stress

Further information is available at NHS Choices

Anxiety

Anxiety is the feeling of worry, fear and general unease. This can affect everybody at some point during their life however when these feelings become more frequent and even constant – this is when you need to seek help and advice.

The symptoms of anxiety vary greatly between people but can include:

  • Trouble sleeping
  • Unable to concentrate
  • Feeling irritable or tearful
  • Feeling your heart beating faster
  • Feeling sick or nauseous
  • Headaches.

Further information is available at NHS Choices

Panic Attacks

Panic attacks occur when there is a sudden and intense feeling of fear or anxiety. Whilst these are not life threatening, they can be frightening for the person experiencing them.

Symptoms can include:

  • Feeling disorientated
  • Feeling sick or nauseous
  • Rapid breathing
  • Sweating
  • Dizziness

Panic attacks can last anywhere between five minutes to half an hour. Where possible try to find distractions and control your breathing to help you relax.

Further information is available at NHS Choices

Who can I contact for help?

Sometimes stress, anxiety and feeling low can become all consuming and you may feel that you want to harm yourself. There are organisations that can help you in your time of need.

Comment from GP / Clinical Practitioner

Key Points

  • Whilst there is little that can prevent stress, there are many ways of trying to manage it.
  • If your feelings of stress or anxiety become more frequent or even constant make sure you seek help.
  • There are many charitable organisations who can help with how you are feeling as well as your GP.

Further Information

Cardiff and Vale Mental Health Services