Stress is the result of losing the balance between the many demands on you and your ability to deal with them.  Your whole system - body, feelings, mind and behaviour can be affected.  You need to take back some control.

What to do -

• Manage your time.  Set priorities.  Share responsibilities with others.
• Learn to say no.
• Reward yourself every time you achieve a goal.
• Make time for yourself - do things for your own enjoyment.
• Find ways to relax that suit you, and use them every day - deep breathing, meditation, yoga, painting, walking.
• Release tension with physical activity.
• Get enough sleep and take a break when tired.
• Cut down on stimulants - coffee, alcohol, smoking.
• Avoid tranquilisers - sleeping pills are a last resort.
• If you are ill, don’t carry on regardless.
• Learn how to solve problems, rather than avoid them.
• If you are worried or unhappy, find someone to talk to.

If stress is seriously interfering with your life and you want to see a counsellor, contact the Student Advice and Counselling Centre.