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Stress is something most of us experience at some point in our lives. While a small amount of stress can sometimes help us stay motivated and focused, prolonged or overwhelming stress can have a significant impact on both our physical and mental health.
As we mark International Stress Awareness Week 2026, it’s an ideal opportunity to pause, reflect on our wellbeing and understand how stress may be affecting our lives. At Sussex Premier Health, we’re encouraging people to recognise the signs of stress, prioritise self-care and seek support when needed.
What Is Stress?
Stress is the body’s natural response to pressure, challenges or difficult situations. It triggers the release of hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol, preparing us to react quickly to perceived threats.
While this response can be helpful in short-term situations, ongoing stress can take a toll on the body and mind, affecting everything from sleep and energy levels to heart health and emotional wellbeing.
Signs and Symptoms of Stress
Stress affects everyone differently, but there are some common symptoms to watch out for.
Physical Symptoms
- Headaches
- Muscle tension or aches
- Fatigue and low energy
- Dizziness
- Digestive problems
- Increased heart rate
- Sleep disturbances
- Changes in appetite
Emotional Symptoms
- Feeling overwhelmed
- Irritability or frustration
- Anxiety or constant worry
- Low mood
- Difficulty relaxing
- Loss of motivation
Cognitive Symptoms
- Difficulty concentrating
- Forgetfulness
- Racing thoughts
- Reduced productivity
- Poor decision-making
Behavioural Symptoms
- Social withdrawal
- Increased alcohol consumption
- Changes in eating habits
- Difficulty sleeping
- Reduced exercise or self-care
If these symptoms persist, they can begin to impact your work, relationships and overall quality of life.
Common Causes of Stress
Stress can arise from many aspects of daily life, including:
Work Pressures – Meeting deadlines, heavy workloads, long hours and workplace change can all contribute to increased stress levels.
Financial Concerns – Rising living costs, debt and financial uncertainty are common causes of ongoing worry.
Health Issues – Managing your own health concerns or supporting a loved one through illness can be emotionally and physically demanding.
Family and Relationship Challenges – Caring responsibilities, parenting demands and relationship difficulties can all increase stress levels.
Major Life Changes – Moving home, starting a new job, retirement, bereavement or other significant life events can trigger periods of heightened stress.
How Stress Can Affect Your Physical Health
Many people associate stress with mental wellbeing, but it can also have a significant impact on physical health.
Long-term stress has been linked to:
- High blood pressure
- Increased risk of heart disease
- Sleep disorders
- Digestive issues
- Weakened immune function
- Headaches and migraines
- Chronic pain conditions
This is why it’s important not to ignore persistent stress symptoms, particularly if they are beginning to affect your daily life.
Practical Ways to Manage Stress – While it may not always be possible to eliminate stress completely, there are steps you can take to manage it more effectively.
Prioritise Sleep – Good quality sleep plays a vital role in helping the body recover from stress. Aim for a consistent sleep routine and create a relaxing bedtime environment.
Stay Active – Regular physical activity can help improve mood, reduce tension and boost energy levels.
Maintain Social Connections – Talking openly with friends, family or colleagues can provide valuable emotional support and perspective.
Take Regular Breaks – Whether at work or home, small breaks throughout the day can help prevent feelings of overwhelm and improve focus.
Practise Relaxation Techniques – Activities such as mindfulness, meditation, deep breathing exercises and yoga may help reduce stress levels and promote relaxation.
Limit Unhealthy Coping Mechanisms – While alcohol, excessive caffeine or comfort eating may feel helpful in the short term, they can often worsen stress symptoms over time.
When Should You Seek Professional Help?
It’s important to seek professional advice if:
- Stress is affecting your work or personal relationships
- You’re struggling to cope with daily activities
- Symptoms persist despite self-help measures
- You are experiencing prolonged anxiety or low mood
- Physical symptoms are becoming more frequent or severe
Seeking support is a positive step towards improving your wellbeing and should never be viewed as a sign of weakness.
Looking After Your Health During International Stress Awareness Week
International Stress Awareness Week is a reminder that looking after your health is about more than treating illness. It’s about recognising when something doesn’t feel right and taking steps to address it before it begins to impact your quality of life.
Taking time to prioritise your wellbeing, however small the change, can make a meaningful difference to your physical and mental health.
Remember, managing stress is a continuous process, and it’s okay to seek support when needed. There are a number of organisations that can help when life becomes a little tricky:
At Sussex Premier Health, we offer fast access to Consultant-led Treatments and Services to help you treat and manage a variety of health conditions.
To find out more please call a member of our Self-Pay team on 01424 757455 or make an on-line enquiry
01424 757400
info@sussexpremierhealth.com