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Stress can be caused by anything from work or relationship difficulties, to money problems or speaking in public.

The important thing to remember is that sooner or later everybody suffers from stress to some degree, and you are not alone. Anxiety is similar to stress in that its' causes are varied, in extreme cases it can bring about panic attacks, which often bring about a feeling of being unable to breathe, sweating palpitations etc. Recent statistics from the charity 'mindout' suggest that every year 1 in 4 people experience mental health conditions such as stress, anxiety or depression.

If you are suffering from stress or anxiety there are many things you can do.

¨ Write down situations or events that make you feel stressed so that when they occur you recognise them.

¨ If you feel yourself getting stressed or find yourself in a situation that causes you stress and anxiety, practise some deep breathing exercises. Practising these at times when you are not stressed will make them more effective when you are.

¨ Gentle exercise such as walking often helps to relax your mind. As does a soak in a hot bath, or listening to some soothing music.

¨ Remember that alcohol, cigarettes and drugs only provide superficial relief, and can make problems worse.

Often stress and anxiety can be created by financial, academic or personal problems, for help and support on any of these issues drop into the advice centre where there are members of staff employed and trained to deal specifically with these issues. See the section 'about LUSU' and look under advice centre. Or contact the sabbatical women's officer or education and welfare officer.

If you just need someone to talk to then contact nightline the confidential listening service run by students, for students. Call x94444 between 10pm & 8am every night during term time, for information or just somebody to talk to. Nightline volunteers are trained to be a good listening ear, and will be on the lookout for new volunteers to train at the beginning of term.

Or you can contact the University counselling service in Furness College or on ext.92690.

For other sources of support or information contact the union or look on the helplines and website page.