TIPS FOR COPING WITH STRESS AND TRAUMA

• BE AWARE of just how much stress you are experiencing and understand the implications for your health! Some people become ill because they don't realise just how stressed they are, or how damaging to their health it is to ignore the warning symptoms. You might find it helpful to check out the Holmes-Rahe stress score sheet - look at  http://www.bbc.co.uk/health/tvandradio/stresstestquizindex.shtm.  From the list on the left hand side of the page, choose The Stress Test, then, again from the list on the left hand side of the page, choose Assess Your Stress. You can then complete the test.
• REMEMBER - stress isn't weakness - IT'S HUMAN
• MAKE A LITTLE TIME just for yourself (even if it's only twenty minutes) EVERY DAY. Use the time to do something you enjoy - it can be as simple as having a cup of tea or coffee in peace and quiet.
• GET PLENTY OF EXERCISE - it's a very effective anti-depressant.
• GO OUT ON SUNNY DAYS - sunshine is good for our sense of wellbeing.
• SMILE - it makes you feel better (and those around you will respond more positively to you).
• TRY TO REMAIN ENGAGED WITH YOUR ENVIRONMENT. Relationship breakdown can swallow your whole world, preoccupying all your thoughts and emotions - IF YOU LET IT. Therefore, try to remain aware of what's going on around you, what's happening with your friends and even what's happening in the wider world.
• ENJOY THE LITTLE THINGS!
• TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF. If you've lost your appetite, try eating little and often and, most importantly, HEALTHILY - a banana is definitely a better bet than sweets. Although chocolate can have a "lifting" effect on our mood, that isn't an excuse for pigging out on it !
• DON'T TRY TO "GO IT ALONE". At times of difficulty, all of us need encouragement and help from others. Remember, it is not a sign of weakness to need this - it is actually a sign of your strength that you are able to recognise your need. A further sign of your strength is to do something positive about those needs.
• DON'T BE TERRIFIED OF ANTI-DEPRESSANTS. They're not appropriate for everyone, but many do find them helpful. Anti-depressants can provide a calmness and objectivity that helps many people deal more effectively with the issues that face them. Most anti-depressants available today are NOT addictive - do speak to your GP about this.
• ATTEND A BREAKTHROUGH PROGRAMME. The companionship, help and support you receive can work wonders for your confidence and self-esteem.

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