2 February 2017

NHS Borders is running a series of weekly classes throughout March 2017 to give people in the Borders practical advice on managing stress.

Coping with life’s everyday challenges can lead to stress in many different forms. To help cope with these stresses, free hour long sessions are being run in Peebles throughout the month of March.

You can come along to one or all of the classes to learn about the common effects of stress, and get some practical advice. Classes will be run by Jennifer Adams and Sinead Murray, both Clinical Associates in Applied Psychology within NHS Borders Mental Health Service.

These are classes, not group therapy. You will not be asked to talk about yourself or your problems. If you feel that you need one-to-one support then you will be encouraged to contact your GP for more appropriate support to be arranged. Support group contacts, self-help leaflets and DVDs will also be available at the classes.

Classes will take place in Peebles Library on the 2nd, 9th, 16th and 23rd March from 5.30 – 6.30pm.



The programme for the classes will run in the following order:

Week 1:           Understanding stress

Week 2:           Improving sleep and relaxation

Week 3:           Managing thoughts that bother you

Week 4:           Feeling better about yourself


Sinead Murray, Clinical Associate in Applied Psychology at NHS Borders said: “Stress is a commonly experienced problem. Feeling under pressure whilst managing life’s everyday challenges can lead to problems such as disturbed sleep, an inability to relax, feeling tense, anxious or irritable, persistent worrying or loss of self-confidence.

“Through our stress management classes we hope to educate people about the common signs and effects of stress, equip them with some practical skills and techniques to relieve the symptoms, and give advice to help manage stress more effectively in the future. 

“Our classes are open to everyone and they are free. You may want to come along for your own benefit, or to gain knowledge and skills to help you support a family member or friend overcome stress.  In either case you are sure to gain some value by taking part. “

The classes are free to everyone, however booking is essential.  If you would like to attend please contact Peebles Library on 01721 720123 or email stressbusters@borders.scot.nhs.uk to reserve a place.