Especially when you are dealing with change or a challenging situation, stress can affect our mind and body. We may worry, have unwelcome emotional feelings, and experience physical symptoms. We may find it difficult to relax, our mood may be affected, and it may make it more difficult to deal with other people. For example, we may be more irritable than usual.

Stress can be caused by almost anything. What one person finds stressful may not have the same impact on someone else, as we are all different. Common situations that may be stressful include health concerns for a loved one or ourselves, financial concerns, relationship or family concerns, bereavement, employment or housing issues. Becoming a Carer when a loved one starts to need support, or caring for someone with increasing needs for support, can certainly be a source of stress for some people.

It is worth remembering that even events that seem positive can be a source of stress, such as a new child, a house move, a new job, or a family wedding. And seemingly minor problems can become a source of stress if they continue for some time. Stress can sap energy levels, upset sleep patterns and affect normal healthy eating habits. We might also experience headaches, other aches and pains, nausea, and other stomach, bowel and skin symptoms. These symptoms can also have physical causes, so speak with your GP or other professional to take care of your health.

If we get suddenly stressed or anxious we exhibit the “fight or flight” response with fast and shallow breathing, rapid heartbeat, dry mouth and sweaty palms among other things. This is part of the mechanism that humans have evolved to protect us in physically dangerous situations. However in modern life, where our challenges are not helped by fighting or running away, these responses can be uncomfortable and add to our distress.

In each circumstance people think and feel in their own unique way. This can include sadness, anger, becoming tearful, irritable, feeling worried or on edge. Our usual sense of humour can evaporate, or we may struggle to concentrate. We may have a sense of hopelessness or being overwhelmed, and we may even experience shame, guilt or self blame about thinking or feeling this way. We might also feel we want to blame others. Sometimes other people around us may notice a change in us and express concern about us being stressed – they may pick up the signs before we are fully aware that we are struggling with a situation. Or we may notice that someone else needs extra support before they acknowledge this themselves.

Unpaid Carers can experience different challenges that may cause them stress. Connecting Carers are available via the CARER SUPPORT LINE 01463 723560 to talk things through and provide information about other sources of help, from Monday to Friday 10am – 4pm.

There is additional information relating to caring here: Stress and depression – Carers UK. Do reach out and talk to someone if you feel you need support with your mental or physical health or in need of emotional support, whether it is Connecting Carers, a trusted friend or family member, your GP or another professional. For example, if you or someone else is feeling anxious or depressed, are hearing or seeing things that others are not hearing or seeing, or are using alcohol or drugs or other potentially harmful ways try to cope with stress, or are having suicidal thoughts. You are not alone. If you need support urgently or “out of hours” to stay safe contact NHS 24 on 111 or dial 999 for emergency services.

Remember to make time, where you can, for the things that you enjoy and that help keep you well, and build these into your day and your week. It is important to maintain hope for the future and your drive to keep moving forward, even in the face of challenges, to find ways to enjoy a good quality of life in your situation.