Stress is prevalent in virtually all life and work environments. Stress carries a high personal cost as well as a high cost to employers and to society. Workplace, marriage, family relationships, finances, life changes and health related issues are some of the areas in which stress is experienced. Some stress is in the realm that we can control. Other stressors may be externally or medically related.

Some key stress indicators are:

• Exhaustion
• Change of sleep patterns
• Observed changes in eating patterns
• Sighing.- laboured breathing
• Boredom with life and / or work

Possible burnout indicators:

• Helplessness / hopelessness
• Cynicism
• Physical, Mental and Emotional Exhaustion
• Doubt and Shame
• Failure
• Crisis

Much of the stress and burnout related difficulties which people face may be reduced or eliminated by understanding the source, the resources that support stress management, and the development of effective strategies which suit your personal situation.

The benefits of healthy stress management include emotional and physical health.
The following list includes some  practical strategies:

• Review of your diet - eat well
• Exercise regularly
• Get some sleep
• Manage your time
• Learn to say NO
• Cultivate a sense of humour
• Cultivate friendships
• Reconcile with adversaries

With appropriate counselling support, you can take the first steps towards healthy stress management.