A STRESS management course is being launched in Lochgelly to provide practical support and advice in coping with stress.

‘Step on Stress’ is a free course developed by the NHS Fife Psychology Department and aims to help people to understand stress, as well as providing practical tools that can be used in everyday life. The course operates on a self-referral basis and is open to any adult.

The course was initially launched in Dunfermline and West Fife in 2012 and proved to be so successful that it is now being expanded into Central Fife.

Nearly 400 people across Fife have taken part in the classes since the programme was launched.

The classes start in January and take place at Dunfermline High School, Lochgelly Centre, Templehall Community Centre in Kirkcaldy and the Leven Campus of Fife College. Running over three weekly sessions, the course begins by examining the impact of factors like diet and sleep on mood and offers some simple lifestyle tips so that participants can start tackling their stress straight away. The course also looks at how stress can affect physical reactions and thoughts, and provides relaxation techniques to help participants to deal with their worries.

Clinical Psychologist, Dr Marie Ferguson, said, “Stress is a very common problem, particularly at this time of year, and it is important that people can access help quickly and easily.

“Everyone feels stressed from time to time but it can become a problem when we can’t shake it off.

“Stress has many causes and so it is important that we learn to manage it, not only for when we are feeling the strain but to help us recognise the early signs of stress and prevent it from taking hold”.

She added, “Thankfully, there are lots of things that we can do to help - basic changes in lifestyle, like cutting down on caffeine or alcohol can help to reduce the physical symptoms of stress, and helping you sleep better. Exercise is also a great way of burning off the nervous energy and helping to alleviate the physical symptoms.

“You can learn more about how to tackle stress and control worrying by booking a place on the next ‘Step on Stress’ class. “The classes are free and you can book online at www.moodcafe.co.uk or call 01383 565442. You will receive a free CD containing lots of different relaxation exercises plus information on controlling worries, helping you to sleep better and lots more.”