Stress affects each and every one of us at some point in our lives – but it is how we manage it that controls the impact it has on us.
It is natural to feel stressed from time to time. Christmas is the perfect example of an occasion where there is added pressure on everyone. Sometimes stress can be caused by issues in the workplace, relationships or financial troubles. Stress affects each and every one of us at some point in our lives – but it is how we manage it that controls the impact it has on us.
Electrical Industries Charity (EIC) understands that stress plays a huge factor in everyday lives, particularly in the workplace. Demands are high and often there simply aren’t enough hours in the day to get everything done. This can have a damaging effect on life at home, impacting both family life and your own health. People’s wellbeing is at the heart of what EIC do, therefore they offer free advice to those in the electrical industry to help handle stressful times.
Sometimes, you may not even realise how stressed you are until it is pointed out to you. Keith is an example of someone the Charity has supported in managing his stress levels. It wasn’t until he attended an ECA meeting where there was a presentation on the signs of stress in the workplace, that he realised he could tick virtually every box on the list and it was time to do something about it. Therefore, Keith got in contact with EIC for advice.
As the owner of a small electrical company, Keith was extremely busy due to the high volume of work and long hours required. As a result, he found himself working onsite in the day and at home in the evenings, leaving him tired, irritable and not eating healthily.
EIC suggested a few simple methods to help Keith reduce his stress levels which can be used by anyone going through a challenging time. Firstly, they advised fitting in some exercise due to the endorphins which are released. Endorphins are chemicals that help to relieve stress and boost happiness with regular exercise proven to combat anxieties and depression.
Often people worry that they have no time to exercise but even a brisk 10-15 minute walk every other day is beneficial. Fitting in two 30 minute exercise sessions a week can make a significant difference in the battle against stress.
A lot us are guilty of spending too much time in front of our computer or laptop. It is important to take some time out to switch off and relax. One of the best ways to achieve this is by using the HeadSpace app: https://www.headspace.com/headspace-meditation-app. There are a range of techniques to listen to which can help you clear your head of worries and assist with feeling calmer. The best part is that you only need to take 5-10 minutes out of your busy schedule to listen and feel the benefits.
Eating healthily often goes out of the window during stressful times in life. However, eating poorly, grabbing sugary snacks on the go, or missing meals entirely will not help your stress levels. A regular meal routine and trying to incorporate fruit and vegetables into your diet is pivotal in giving you welcome energy to feel good about yourself.
The Charity were delighted to hear that Keith has felt less stressed of late. He has found some time to fit in a few gym sessions as well as using the HeadSpace app. EIC will schedule a call with him again in the New Year to see how is feeling, particularly as he is moving to a new house.
If you’re feeling stressed and not sure how to handle it, contact EIC today for advice. For more information, contact Jess Vailima on: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.