As a community nurse, supporting someone physically and mentally can be tiring and it can be easy to overlook your own wellbeing. This can consequently lead to stress, whether this be due to large workload, work relationships, insufficient time or personal worries – because of this it’s important to learn to cope with and relieve stress.
What is stress?
Stress is the feeling of being under too much pressure; this could be emotionally or physically. Symptoms of stress include headaches, depression, low energy and nervousness. Everyone reacts differently to stress, so a situation that is stressful for one could be motivating to another. Equally, everyone has different ways to cope – but it is important to find a way that works for you. Determine your tolerance level for stress and try to live within this limit.
Here are some tips that could help relieve stress:
Exercise
Just 20 to 30 minutes of exercise doesn’t only benefit your body, but also your mind. Many swear by exercise as being the most effective way to clear their head and feel refreshed.
Make time for your hobbies
Ensure you spend time doing what you enjoy. Whether this is cooking or baking, playing your favourite sport, catching up with friends, watching your favourite TV programme or even just some online retail therapy, this is the time to let go and forget about your worries.
Be realistic
If you feel overwhelmed with tasks, learn to say no. Only you know your limits so it is good to communicate this with others and even ask for their help.
Plan ahead
Planning is the key to organisation, and this will help to structure your week. Choose a day each week (we suggest Sunday) to plan your week ahead, including work shifts, daily meals and ‘me time’. Invest in a diary or planner to write everything down – this way you won’t forget anything you have booked and also clears your headspace.
Talk to someone
The greatest support anyone can ask for is from those closest to us. Our friends and family know us the best, so talk to them and let them provide love and guidance. Don’t try to cope alone.
Learn from mistakes
We all make mistakes every now and then and this can cause us to stress. You should not only accept the fact mistakes may happen, but also learn from them. This will help you overcome future problems, consequently supporting you to cope with any further stress.
Sleep
Lack of sleep can cause you to be less patient and easily agitated which can in turn increase stress. Adults tend to need seven to nine hours sleep to ensure a good night’s sleep; sticking to earlier nights and longer sleep patterns can help reduce stress and keep your body and mind healthy.
Be around people that make you smile
There’s no better company than your friends and family. Surrounding yourself with people full of positive energy will help you to feel upbeat and motivated.
