STAFF WELLBEING WEEK QUEENS UNIVERSITY BELFAST

27-31 JANUARY 2014

Mental Health and Emotional Wellbeing

Colette RogersHealth Improvement Manager

Public Health Agency

Recognise Stress

Signs of long-term stress

Unable to get restful sleep – tired throughout the dayEating more ‘comfort foods’ which are full of fat and sugarHaving less energy to take exerciseNot feeling motivated to see people or get things doneMemory and concentration get worseOur immune systems weaken – increases the risk of coughs

and coldsTension - Back pain, headaches and stomach and bowel

problems are more common

Common Ways of Avoiding Stress

Block out problems by

Drinking too much alcoholIgnoring billsSpending too much moneyAvoiding people/ disconnecting from friends

Unhealthy ways to deal with stress

How are you feeling today?

VERY STRESSED NO STRESS

Tense, irritable, can’t cope, can’t be bothered, tearful,

can’t sleep, no time, no energy, smoking or drinking more

Relaxed, Coping Well,

In control, Calm, Enjoying Life,

Happy

Steps to Deal With Stress

Look after yourself physically and emotionally

www.choosetolivebetter.com

Steps to Deal With Stress

Coping Better

www.mindingyourhead.info

Steps to Deal With Stress

Take Action – Practical Things

Relaxation and mindfulnessEat Well, Sleep Well, Be ActiveProblem solvingSeek support & adviceRelax and have fun

www.publichealth.hscni.net