Although we all experience stress at one point or another, sometimes these feelings of anxiety can be overwhelming.
Like when you’re not getting along with a co-worker, having a tense dinner with your in-laws or juggling too many work projects at once, for example.
Experiencing stress is normal – and good for us in some circumstances – but if these feelings don’t dissipate or calm down, you may begin to feel overwhelmed, which is why learning to manage difficult emotions is imperative.
To help us build resilience, registered psychologist and managing director of Umbrella, Jacqui Maguire, shares three tips for coping with stress and anxiety in the above video.
It’s worth noting that the tips shared by Jacqui will help you with day-to-day stresses, but if you are experiencing mental health issues you should always seek help from a professional.
We’ve outlined where you can get help below:
If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, call 0800 111 757 or text 4202 to talk to a trained Depression Helpline counsellor for free. For other mental health issues, call Lifeline on 0800 543 354, the Suicide Crisis Helpline on 0508 TAUTOKO or Youthline on 0800 376 633.
For more information, check out the Mental Health Foundation or depression.org.nz.
Other helpful avenues:
Your GP – your local doctor is always a good first post of call.
Your workplace – many workplaces will have a free Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) where you can access one on one support.
A local psychologist or counsellor. Word of mouth is always useful for selecting a professional, and making sure you form a good sense of rapport with them is paramount. Remember, you can always change the professional you are going to see if the first person wasn’t the right fit!
