HOW do you handle the pressures and pitfalls of everyday life?

Would you class yourself as a 'stressed Eric' or someone who can take everything in their stride without so much as a burst blood vessel?

Well, next month (Wednesday November 1) sees the introduction of National Stress Day -- with tips, suggestions and advice on how to beat everyday stress and the rigours of modern day living.

Whether its work-related or whether its your home life that's making you 'stressed out', everyone needs to 'chill out' from time to time.

So, the Citizen has produced a list of tried and tested methods to help combat those 'Winter-time blues'.

Stop what you are doing! -- Feelings of stress or panic are often a warning to desist from current action. This is a chance to control the deteriorating/escalating response to the situation you are in.

Breathe! -- Overwhelming emotions immediately either inhibit or over-stimulate our healthy breathing pattern, disturbing brain chemistry.

Conscious slow and deep breathing reduced our mental over-reaction and stabilises brain oxygen and carbon dioxide levels.

Focus on beauty or safety! -- Emotions are driven by our mental processes and reactions. Changing the focus of our attention on to something safe and familiar brings overwhelming feelings under control.

Notice your power! -- Fear of losing control or being powerless forms part of our overwhelming emotional crises.

Finally, please take up professional advice to make sure that this information is used wisely. The general suggestions listed here are no substitute for common sense and individual skilled help -- i.e. a counsellor or healer who you trust.