Stress is something we all experience - it's part of being human. But when stress becomes constant, overwhelming, or starts to impact our health and happiness, it's time to take a closer look. This Stress Awareness Month is a reminder to pause, check in with ourselves, and ask: How am I really coping?
What Is Stress?
Stress is the body's natural response to pressure or demand. It can be triggered by external factors like work, family, money, or health issues - or internal ones like self-criticism, perfectionism, or anxiety.
While short bursts of stress might be manageable, chronic stress can wear us down over time, leaving us feeling constantly tense, exhausted, and overwhelmed.
When Stress Becomes Too Much
Stress becomes a problem when:
- It feels constant and unrelenting
- You start to feel overwhelmed or helpless
- You're snapping at loved ones, withdrawing, or feeling numb
- Your body is showing signs of strain - headaches, fatigue, tension, poor sleep
- You feel like you're just surviving, not living
These aren't signs of weakness. They're signs your mind and body are asking for support.
Common Signs of Stress
Physical signs:
- Muscle tension, headaches
- Changes in appetite
- Trouble sleeping or waking tired
- Racing heart, upset stomach
Emotional signs:
- Irritability, anxiety, or low mood
- Feeling overwhelmed or "on edge"
- Difficulty relaxing or switching off
Cognitive/Behavioural signs:
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Constant overthinking or worry
- Avoiding responsibilities or withdrawing from people
- Relying on food, alcohol, or other coping strategies to get by
If you're recognising yourself in these, please know - you are not alone. And things can get better.
How Counselling Can Help
Counselling offers a confidential, non-judgemental space to explore what's going on beneath the surface.
We can work together to:
- Understand the root cause of your stress
- Learn practical tools to manage overwhelm
- Explore boundaries, values, and what really matters to you
- Shift from just "getting through" to feeling more grounded, in control, and connected to yourself
Sometimes, just speaking things out loud can bring clarity and relief.
And counselling isn't always heavy - it can be empowering, validating, even full of lightness and the occasional laugh. There's room for all of it.
Ready to Talk?
If stress is weighing you down, you don't have to carry it alone.
I offer a free initial telephone call to talk through what's going on and see how counselling might help. There's no pressure - just a chance to explore your options and ask any questions.
I offer counselling in the way that suits you best:
- Face-to-face sessions
- Online sessions (via zoom)
- Telephone sessions
Whether you're juggling too much, struggling to switch off, or just need a safe space to breather, support is here when you're ready.
You are allowed to rest
You are allowed to ask for help
You are allowed to choose yourself
This Stress Awareness Month, take a moment to check in - and if you feel ready, take the next step. To get in touch complete Ocean’s Breeze Counselling in Plymouth | Online Counsellor in Devon form.
Want to Learn More About Stress?
If you'd like to understand more about stress, its impact, and ways to manage it, the Stress Management Society has helpful articles, tips, and downloadable resources. You can visit them here: The Stress Management Society - From Distress to De-Stress
