unsure what will help

[Sir Cary Cooper]

If you are feeling stressed at work but you don't know why, it is important to get at the source of the problem. There are several ways to do this. First, if you have a friend or colleague that you trust and has provided you with sound advice in the past, then organise with him/her to meet up and try to unwrap what is driving your symptoms. You need to be open and honest in exploring the causes of your anxiety . Once you feel you understand the main driver of your stress, then, with your friend/colleague, explore the various options for dealing with it, ultimately taking the option with the most benefits and least personal costs. Second, if you don't have anyone to help you 'talk through' your problems, then you should go to your GP and ask to see a counsellor, who will guide and support you through this process. Third, If your workplace has a counselling service or employee assistance programme (EAP) then go to it.
The important thing in whichever process you use, is to get help to unwrap the underlying source of your problem, and then to take action.

[Adam Eason]

Additionally, I'd add that your GP may also be able to source or recommend a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist. This mode of therapy is well supported with evidence and aims to teach coping skills to deal with and overcome situations and circumstances that were previously contributing to your stress and/or anxiety. Many studies suggest that excessive rumination about the cause of your worry could be a major contribution to it, therefore, learning how to alleviate symptoms and cope and deal with it effectively is valuable.

Additionally, looking to develop generic skills and useful practices can have a great benefit; basic mindfulness (body scan routines), progressive relaxation and self-hypnosis skills are all of the ilk I'd recommend within my own sphere of professional competence.

As I just mentioned in the Twitter Chat for this clinic.... Many (so-called) 'basic' things also get overlooked - regular exercise, quality social interaction, healthy diet and being able to have time away from work-related maters all contribute to one's ability to effectively cope. Therefore, addressing these areas is recommended.

[Janine Ward]

Try as suggested visiting your gp or if you are not to sure and want to know more about what's available try going to www.iapt.nhs.uk. Improving Access to Psychological Therapies is a government service provided across the uk to offer help for those who are stressed anxious or depressed. the site will direct you to the services in your area and often you can access these by self referral such as telephone or via the web. These services will provide stress reduction techniques and therapy. Often the services will have employment advisors who will help by providing a confidential advice service if work is the cause of your stress. This may include attending meetings with you if required, helping you to retain work, offering support with disabilities and much more.

In addition, and as often is suggested, have a think about your sleep, eating, relaxation and exercise. It goes without saying, but we know that when people are stressed they often stop doing the things that keep them well. Ask yourself are you getting quality sleep? Are you taking regular exercise (30 mins five times per week)? Are you eating properly and avoiding fatty foods, alcohol and sugar to prop you up? Do you have enough relaxation time? Check out the following website for more tips and advice www.glasgowspcmh.org.uk or www.getselfhelp.co.uk.