Managing stress, anxiety and difficult emotions (e.g. anger, frustration, fear)

These are common symptoms and usually only last until the situation causing them, lasts. However if they are not addressed and are left for a prolonged length of time, or recur frequently then they can make other symptoms more difficult to manage.

Identify the causes / problem solve

Identify the causes of your stress, anxiety or difficult emotions, (health, environment, caring situation, finance, etc.) and problem solve to find solutions or ask for solutions from others.

Other useful tips

• Take regular physical activity
• Manage pain and fatigue
• Establish regular sleep patterns
• Do a distraction activity to ‘park’ symptoms, such as hobbies like gardening, crafts, reading a book, listening to music, watching TV, or go out doors for fresh air, exercise and relaxation
• Talk and share with others
• Get help online with a range of information and resources, visit
  • MIND 
  • Mental Health Foundation
• Relaxation

If you feel you are unable to cope with your emotions please consult your doctor for further help and advice.

The Road to Wellbeing – a tool for managing the stress of everyday life, is a free Dudley Council publication. To obtain a copy of the booklet, please contact The Healthy Ageing team on 01384 816437 or email  RoadtoRelaxation@dudley.gov.uk