Stress and Angina

Recognising stress

Some people who have lived with a high level of stress over a long period of time are not really aware of being stressed or their inability to relax. 

Keeping a diary of when you feel most stressed or upset can be a start to understanding how you personally cope with stress.  Recognising a pattern to the way we behave can help us to look for other ways of coping with stress that are less harmful e.g. exercise, relaxation tapes and music.  Learning to relax is a skill that has to be learned and does not mean simply watching the television or just doing nothing.

Reviewing your life and priorities

Finding other, better ways of coping will not only reduce your risk but will help you to take control of stressful situations rather than them taking control of you.  Once you recognise your stress ‘triggers’ you can consciously try to relax in these situations: stretching tense muscles, breathing slowly, putting things into perspective.

At work, take jobs in order of importance and try to plan ahead.  However, it may also mean making difficult decisions about your future e.g. changing to a less stressful job.

Last updated: 04/09/2007