# Mental health: Is pressure getting the better of you? ## How to manage stress and prevent a mental health crisis **Navigating through pressure cooker life** These days it feels like the pressure is on constantly. From work to family to social media, there's always something demanding our attention. It can be tough to know how to cope with all of this pressure without feeling overwhelmed. But there are some things you can do to manage stress and prevent it from taking a toll on your mental health. **Recognising the signs of stress** The first step to managing stress is to recognize the signs. Some common signs of stress include: * Feeling overwhelmed or anxious * Having difficulty sleeping * Feeling irritable or moody * Having difficulty concentrating * Losing interest in activities you once enjoyed * Eating more or less than usual * Drinking more alcohol than usual * Using drugs **Simple things you can do to manage stress** If you're experiencing any of these signs of stress, there are some simple things you can do to help manage it. Some effective stress management techniques you can try include: * **Getting regular exercise.** Exercise is a great way to reduce stress and improve your mood. * **Eating a healthy diet.** Eating a healthy diet can help you feel better both physically and mentally. * **Getting enough sleep.** When you're well-rested, you're better able to deal with stress. * **Taking breaks.** If you're feeling overwhelmed, take a break from whatever you're doing and do something you enjoy. * **Talking to someone.** Talking to a friend, family member, or therapist can help you to process your feelings and develop coping mechanisms. **When to seek professional help** If you're struggling to manage stress on your own, it's important to seek professional help. A therapist can help you to develop coping mechanisms, manage your stress, and improve your mental health. **Remember, you're not alone.** Millions of people experience stress every day. There is help available, and you don't have to go through this alone.
