Stress

Understanding pressure, overload, and how to restore balance and wellbeing

Stress is a natural response that helps us meet challenges, stay alert, and cope with demands. However, when stress becomes ongoing or overwhelming, it can begin to affect sleep, mood, health, relationships, and overall quality of life.

Many people live in a near-constant state of pressure — juggling work, study, family, finances, health concerns, and expectations of themselves. Over time, this can leave the body and mind feeling exhausted, tense, and unable to switch off.

At SGI Psychology in Preston (Northern Suburbs of Melbourne), our psychologists provide evidence-based support to help you understand stress, calm your nervous system, and develop healthier ways of coping.

Signs stress may be affecting you

Chronic stress can show up in many ways, including:

  • constant tiredness or burnout

  • feeling overwhelmed or irritable

  • difficulty relaxing or “switching off”

  • poor sleep or racing thoughts at night

  • muscle tension, headaches, or jaw clenching

  • stomach upset or appetite changes

  • reduced motivation or enjoyment

  • difficulty concentrating or making decisions

  • feeling emotionally flat or on edge

  • increased anxiety or low mood

Stress is not only mental — it is a whole-body experience.

Common sources of stress

Stress can be triggered by:

  • work or study demands

  • caregiving or family responsibilities

  • relationship difficulties

  • financial pressure

  • health concerns

  • major life changes

  • perfectionism or high self-expectations

  • unresolved emotional experiences

Often, stress builds gradually until it feels unmanageable.

How therapy helps with stress

Psychological therapy can help you:

  • understand how stress affects your body and mind

  • recognise early warning signs of overload

  • calm the nervous system

  • develop practical coping strategies

  • reduce unhelpful thinking patterns

  • improve boundaries and time management

  • rebuild balance and energy

  • reconnect with what matters to you

Many people are surprised at how much lighter life can feel once stress is addressed.

Evidence-based approaches we use

Your psychologist may draw from:

  • Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)

  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

  • Mindfulness-based therapies

  • Self-compassion approaches

  • Stress-management and relaxation skills

  • Behavioural and lifestyle strategies

Therapy is tailored to your needs and paced at your comfort level.

When stress becomes burnout

Long-term stress without recovery can lead to burnout, which may include:

  • emotional exhaustion

  • feeling detached or numb

  • loss of motivation

  • reduced performance

  • feeling ineffective or hopeless

Early support can prevent stress from reaching this stage.

Our location

SGI Psychology is based in Preston, in Melbourne’s northern suburbs, offering:

  • in-person psychology appointments

  • Telehealth sessions across Australia

Book an appointment

If stress is affecting your wellbeing or daily life, you can:

You deserve support, rest, and balance.

Book a Session