Extreme stress can seriously impact your mental health and quality of life. If you're feeling overwhelmed and unable to cope with your responsibilities, help is available. You can get support from 4 helplines in Scotland. Reach out if you're experiencing any of the following:

Unable to enjoy yourself in activities that were previously enjoyed.
Teeth grinding and clenching jaw.
Procrastinating or avoiding responsibilities.
Decreased sexual function such as loss of interest in sex or inability to enjoy it.
Difficulty breathing, wheezing, or shortness of breath.
Sleep disturbances; sleeping excessively or not sleeping at all.
Digestive issues that result in diarrhea, constipation, heart burn, or digestive disorders.
Having difficulty making decisions and judgments.

When you're stressed out, it can feel like you're under immense pressure. Your emotions are heightened so you may be more short-tempered and irritable. You're also more likely to get upset over seemingly small things. It's normal to feel overwhelmed and that things are beyond your control.

It's not always easy to admit that you need extra support, but everyone needs help sometimes. That's why there are hotlines available in Scotland who help people who are overwhelmed with stress. It can be a huge relief to share your feelings with someone who cares and wants to understand what you're going through.

If you feel like you might need support with your experiences of stress, try reaching out to a hotline in Scotland. It's free and confidential.