Stress levels on the rise

By Rebecca Cleaver

Australians will experience an increase in stress levels this year due to financial and relationship strain, according to a recent study.

The National Stress Report, commissioned by acupressure brand Yantra Mat, found 45 per cent of the Australian population believes 2012 will see them more stressed than previous years.

Job security is the main cause of stress among those 18 to 24, while the rising cost of living has baby boomers most concerned.

Deputy CEO of beyondblue, Dr Nicole Highet, said it was not surprising that young Australians are worried about job security. “Security of employment for identity formation can be very important for a young person’s outlook and well-being.”

The Report also found the Global Financial Crisis and post-Christmas debts are contributing to financial stress.

A spokesperson for Yantra Mat, Steve Hull, said he was surprised by the results, but he understood the increase in financial pressure. “There’s the threat of a double recession, price hikes across the board when belts are beyond tight, and big brands shutting up shop or moving operations offshore.”

He said it was possible for Australians to maintain a relaxed, laid-back attitude despite mounting financial pressures. “It is really important that we all just take a step back and try to identify what is causing stress, and then look for suitable remedies that may be able to assist.”

These might include learning new relaxation techniques that can assist with stress-related symptoms such as sleep problems and muscle tension.

Sydney resident Paul Vanzella, 31, embraces the Sydney lifestyle as a way to relieve stress.

Mr Vanzella moved from Batlow to Bondi in 2003. While finding and maintaining work in Sydney was a challenge, he said Sydney’s healthy outdoor culture has helped him in times of work-related stress.

“When I moved to Sydney I began running on the beach. There are always lots of people running here, and it’s a great way to de-stress.”

Dr Highet said anyone experiencing financial stress should seek information from beyondblue’s financial booklet. “It contains great tips around looking after your own well-being, doing things that you enjoy, and that don’t necessarily cost a lot of money.”