Avoiding Stress: top ten tips

1. Make time to take a break

The University has lots to offer staff to allow them a break away from their work. Take a walk around campus, try different places to eat and drink, attend a relaxation course or go to the gym.

2. Have a healthy life style

If we eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly and ensure we get enough sleep and rest, our body is better able to cope with stress should it occur.

3. Avoid unnecessary conflict

Look for win-win situations where both parties can achieve a positive outcome.

4. Accept the things you cannot change

Changing a difficult situation is not always possible. Concentrate on the things that you can control.

5. Find out what causes you stress

Try to understand what is worrying you and try to change your thoughts and behaviours to reduce it.

6. Manage your time more effectively

Prioritise your day and do the important jobs first. Don’t put off the unpleasant tasks – avoidance causes stress.

7. Know your limitations

We cause ourselves a great deal of stress because we like people to like us and don't want to let people down. Learn to delegate effectively and be assertive and know when to ask for help.

8. Meet friends

The activities we engage in with friends help us relax. Friends can help you to ease troubles and see things in a new way. Laughter helps boost the immune system that is often depleted during stress. Relaxation also helps your body return to its normal healthy state.

9. Develop a positive thinking style

Often, talking to a friend/colleague/family member will help you see things from a different and less stressful perspective.

10. Tackle problems at the earliest opportunity

The earlier problems are talked through and tackled, the easier they are to resolve. There is lots of professional support available to managers and employees at the University.