In this episode, we are talking about stress.
We all know what it’s like to feel stressed. Being under pressure is a normal part of life, however, becoming overwhelmed by stress can lead to mental and physical health problems or make existing problems worse. How much stress affects us depends on how we learn to cope and our resilience levels.
Resilience is the idea that you can build your tolerance level to pressure before it turns into stress. You can do this by living a healthy lifestyle and changing how you think and behave in certain situations and your reaction to life events.
My amazing guest this week is John Peters.
John came to the world’s attention in January 1991. On the first day of the Gulf War, a British Tornado bomber flown by John and his navigator was shot down over Iraqi territory and the two men were captured. After mental and physical torture, they were forcibly shown on Iraqi television. His disfigured image became a potent symbol of Saddam Hussein’s ruthless aggression. John spent seven weeks held captive.
In this episode, John shares the stress he experienced, how he coped and discusses how to be more resilient.
Anxiety UK
03444 775 774 (helpline)
07537 416 905 (text)
anxietyuk.org.uk
Advice and support for people living with anxiety.
Hostage International
- Helpline +44 (0)845 608 1360
- [email protected]
- Hostage International, PO Box 467
Ashtead, Surrey, KT22 2LQ
Togetherall
togetherall.com
Online mental health community (formerly called Big White Wall). Free in some areas through your GP, employer or university.
Health and Safety Executive (HSE)
International Stress Management Association
isma.org.uk
Information about stress, including details of practitioners who may be able to help you.
Mind Tools
mindtools.com
Tips and articles on personal effectiveness, management and leadership.
NHS UK
nhs.uk
Information about health problems and treatments, including details of local NHS services in England.
Samaritans
116 123 (freephone)
[email protected]
Chris, Freepost RSRB-KKBY-CYJK
PO Box 90 90
Stirling FK8 2SA
samaritans.org
Samaritans are open 24/7 for anyone who needs to talk. You can visit some Samaritans branches in person. Samaritans also have a Welsh Language Line on 0808 164 0123 (7pm–11pm every day).
Stressbusting
stressbusting.co.uk
Information about stress, including causes, treatments and coping techniques.
Stress Management Society
stress.org.uk
Information about stress and tips on how to cope.
Time to Change
time-to-change.org.uk (England)
timetochangewales.org.uk (Wales)
A national campaign to end stigma and discrimination against people with mental health problems in England and Wales.