Managing Stress

Stress can be brought about by the day to day difficulties of coming to terms with the effects of encephalitis. Experiencing stress for short bursts is a healthy way to respond to difficult situations but excessive or prolonged stress can cause illness. These may include physical symptoms - headaches, nausea, indigestion, palpitations, excessive perspiration. Prolonged stress might lead to feelings of anxiety, fear, anger, frustration, and depression. There may be changes in behaviour too - more irritable or tearful, this can affect interaction with others and it may interfere with sleep patterns or sex life.

Regular exercise, rest and nutritious food and water are all necessary in order to live well and withstand stress. Learn to relax by listening to pleasant music or doing specific relaxation exercises that can help you sleep better.

A number of organisations produce a range of helpful information on coping with stress, feelings of anxiety and depression. They include the Mental Health Foundation www.mentalhealth.org.uk and Mind www.mind.org.uk Details of these organisations can be found in the Resource Section at the back of this guide.