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Stress and Depression

Stress

Stress is the feeling of being under pressure.

Manageable or infrequent pressure is not harmful. In fact, a little pressure can raise productivity, be motivating and improve performance.

However, too much pressure or prolonged pressure can lead to stress. Which may lead to poor physical and mental health. Such as serious heart problems, depression and anxiety.

It is difficult to estimate how common stress actually is. A 2008-2009 survey found over 400,000 people were unwell due to work-related stress.

Here are some ways to manage routine or short-term stress:

  • Regular relaxation

  • Moderate exercise

  • Eating a healthy diet

  • Getting enough sleep

Symptoms caused by prolonged or regular stress may include:

  • Indigestion

  • Muscle pains

  • Headaches

  • Sleeplessness

  • Irritability

  • Poor memory and concentration

If not treated, stress may cause further health problems. Such as, high blood pressure (hypertension), anxiety and depression.

If you can't improve matters yourself, you may need further treatment. Including, medicine such as anti-depressants or talking therapies such as counselling.

Depression

Depression is very different from feeling unhappy for a short time.

Whilst unhappiness is a normal response to unpleasant events, depression is a serious illness.

When depressed, you may feel extreme sadness that interfere with daily life. Lasting for weeks or months, rather than days.

Signs that you may have depression include:

  • Loss of interest in your favourite things

  • Loss of self-confidence

  • Increased feelings of anxiety

  • Thoughts of death or suicide

  • Poor memory and concentration

  • Feeling more irritable, frustrated, or aggressive than usual

Depression is quite common. About one in ten people will experience it at some point.

Women are more likely to have depression than men. With 1 in 4 women requiring treatment for depression at some point. With 1 in 10 men requiring treatment.

It is important to seek help if you think you have depression. Contact your GP and they can help you.

With the right treatment and support. Most people can make a full recovery from depression.

Counselling

Counselling is a type of talking therapy or psychological therapy.

It is a private and confidential method of treatment. It involves exploring personal problems you may be going through.

Counsellors listen sympathetically and help you use your resources for a fulfilling life.

Counselling can also help people who are recently bereaved or lost their purpose. Supporting them through a difficult transition in life.