Let’s be honest—life can feel overwhelming at times.
That tight feeling in your chest, the racing thoughts, the sense that there’s just too much on your plate… sound familiar? If so, you’re far from alone. Anxiety and stress affect more people than you might think, and understanding just how common they are can be reassuring.
In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at the numbers, explore why stress and anxiety happen, and share some simple, effective ways to manage them.
How Common Are Anxiety and Stress?
- It might surprise you just how many people experience these feelings:
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), 1 in 8 people globally live with a mental health disorder, and anxiety is one of the most common. - In the UK, a Mental Health Foundation survey found that 74% of adults felt so stressed in the past year that they felt overwhelmed or unable to cope.
- Research by YouGov showed that over half of young adults (18-24) report high levels of anxiety.
So, if you’ve ever felt stressed to the point of exhaustion or anxiety that keeps you up at night—you’re not alone. But where do these feelings come from, and what can you do about them?
Why Do Anxiety and Stress Happen?
Stress and anxiety are the mind’s way of responding to pressure or perceived danger. They’re completely natural, but when they stick around too long or start to take over, they can impact both mental and physical health. Common triggers include:
💼 Work pressure – deadlines, high expectations, or job insecurity
❤️ Relationship difficulties – conflict, loneliness, or emotional strain
🏥 Health concerns – worries about your own well-being or loved ones
💳 Financial stress – rising costs, debt, or uncertainty about the future
While we can’t always remove stress from our lives, we can change how we respond to it.
What Can Help?
Here are some simple yet powerful ways to ease anxiety and stress:
🌿 Breathe deeply – Try inhaling for 4 counts, holding for 4, and exhaling for 6. This small shift can help signal safety to your nervous system.
🧠 Reframe negative thoughts – Instead of “I can’t cope,” try “This is tough, but I’ve faced challenges before.” Small shifts in thinking can make a big difference.
🛑 Set boundaries – Your time and energy are valuable. Saying “no” when you need to isn’t selfish—it’s self-care.
💬 Talk it out – Bottling things up often makes them worse. Speaking with a trusted friend or a professional can bring clarity and relief.
When Should You Reach Out for Support?
Feeling stressed or anxious from time to time is completely normal. But if it’s starting to affect your daily life—if sleep is difficult, relationships feel strained, or you’re constantly on edge—it might be time to reach out.
Counselling can provide:
✔️ A safe space to explore what’s really going on
✔️ Personalised strategies to manage stress and anxiety
✔️ Support to help you feel more in control of your emotions
Final Thought
Life can feel overwhelming sometimes, and when stress or anxiety builds up, it helps to have a space where you can talk things through without judgment. That’s what counselling is—a chance to explore what’s on your mind, make sense of your feelings, and find practical ways to cope. As an online counsellor based in East Belfast, I offer a safe and supportive environment where you can take things at your own pace. You don’t have to face it all alone—small steps can lead to real change. If you're wondering whether counselling is right for you, I offer a free 15-minute consultation to help you decide. Get in touch today, and let’s take that first step together.