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Stress and anxiety
What stress does in the body, and three small things to try when it builds.
Stress is the body getting ready to deal with a threat. A racing heart, tight shoulders, a churning stomach and racing thoughts are common. In early recovery, stress and cravings often show up together.
Anxiety is very common. 17.2% of Australians aged 16 to 85 had an anxiety disorder in the past 12 months (Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, National Study of Mental Health and Wellbeing 2020–2022).
Try one small thing: a longer out-breath, feet on the floor, or a quick HALT check. Moving your body, eating something and talking to someone can all help too.
If worry or panic is getting in the way of daily life, a GP can help. Beyond Blue is there 24/7 on 1300 22 4636. In an emergency call 000.
Step by step
Slow the out-breath
Breathe out a little longer than you breathe in, a few times.
Feet on the floor
Press your feet down and name three things you can see.
Check in
Hungry, angry, lonely or tired? Meet one need first.
Where this comes from
The tips here are everyday ones that Australian health services share: slow breathing, grounding through the senses, looking after food, sleep and movement, and talking to someone. They aren't one named method.
Why it can help
Healthdirect says stress is common, and that relaxation techniques such as slow breathing, along with professional support, can help you manage it. Small steps don't make stress vanish, but they can take the edge off so you can choose your next move. If anxiety keeps getting in the way, a GP or Beyond Blue can help.
17.2% of Australians aged 16 to 85 had an anxiety disorder in the past 12 months.
Source: National Study of Mental Health and Wellbeing 2020–2022 (Australian Bureau of Statistics)For any health concern, talk to your GP or a doctor. HomeCircle is support, not medical care.
